By Desiree Williams
Rain on Main is back for the second year, giving local artists another chance to paint rain barrels and compete for a cash prize.
After hearing of this event in other communities, the City of Carmel Utilities, Dept. of Storm Water Management and the Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District joined forces to bring the contest to Carmel last year.
“We all have the common goal of trying to reduce run-off or improve water quality, so it’s just a really natural partnership,” said Claire Lane, urban conservationist at the SWCD.
By using rain barrels, the contest raises awareness of water quality and conservation. Rain barrels capture rainwater, which reduces municipal water use and run-off into the sewer system.
Starting Aug. 13, the barrels will be open for viewing along Main Street in the Carmel Arts & Design District for an entire week. Artists have freedom to paint what they wish, but Lane said they often stick to a water theme.
Following the gallery walk, there will be a silent auction from 8 to 11 a.m. Aug. 20 at the Carmel Farmer’s Market. All 20 barrels will be up for bid, with proceeds going toward new water information signs in Carmel Clay Parks.
Visitors can go online to vote in the “People’s Choice” category, and the winner will receive a $100 cash prize. There also will be a panel of judges who determine the top three barrels based on artistic merit. Those winners will be announced at the auction with each receiving a cash prize between $50 and $200.
“It’s a great opportunity to take home a barrel that has a purpose,” Lane said.
For more, visit rainonmain.com.
Interested artists should contact Claire Lane at [email protected] or 317-773-2181. Once participation is confirmed, artists will be able to pick up a rain barrel immediately at the Carmel Utilities water distribution office. Finished products are due July 29.
