To celebrate Earth Day, Carmel Green Initiative (CGI) will host the 2012 Earth Hour-Earth Day Art Contest. Through the use of creativity and art, youth will learn about the impacts of energy use and why it’s important to be good stewards of the environment. Youth grades K-12, clubs, scouts and religious youth groups are invited to participate.
“This community education initiative draws on the energy conservation message of Earth Hour and the earth stewardship message of Earth Day to emphasize the important connection between saving energy, saving money and caring for our beautiful blue planet,” said Leslie Webb, president of Carmel Green Initiative. “We incorporate environmental education content from E.P.A. Energy Star Schools to inspire youth to save energy through simple actions such as turning off lights, the TV, and the computer when leaving the room. These are things kids can do.”
Youth are invited make a personal pledge to save energy and create artwork with a message about caring for the earth. The artwork is intended to be placed above the switch plate as a friendly reminder to power down. Entries are due March 15, 2012. Mayor Brainard will recognize winners on April 29, 2012 at 2 p.m. at the Carmel Clay Public Library. For details, please visit www.carmelgreen.org and select Art Contest .
“CGI created the art contest to celebrate Earth Day and engage the community in a fun and creative activity that encourages saving energy at home, schools, congregations and businesses,” said Webb. “We’re grateful for the generous support from the community. Last year, we received over 1,250 amazing art pieces and I look forward to receiving many more this year.”
Partners and sponsors include the City of Carmel, the Carmel Arts & Design District, the Carmel Clay Public Library, the Carmel Arts Council, Earth Day Network, Earth Hour, Nature’s Karma, the Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation, Marie Reamer Fine Art Photography, Beth Maier Photography, Evan Lurie Art Gallery, Eye on Art Gallery, Lowe’s and Girl Scouts of Central Indiana.
