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Robert Keene’s “Deep Wood Island” is among the 24 handmade entries in the holiday exhibit, which will be open daily through Jan. 19 at the aquarium.
His creation depicts a traditional lighthouse with horizontal red and white stripes leading up to a black crown. It stands on a tall rocky bluff overlooking the sea, upon which sails a three-masted square-rigger.
“Each year we are amazed by the time and effort that our contestants put into their lighthouses,” said Judith Bacal, the aquarium’s exhibits director. “The bar gets raised every year on design and craftsmanship. In turn, having all these smart and creative pieces of art on display only makes the experience of visiting The Maritime Aquarium during the holiday season even more engaging, enjoyable and memorable.”
Lighthouses in the 2014 contest include structures made out of materials ranging from wood, paper and stone to frosting, gingerbread and gumballs. Some are modeled after real lighthouses, while others are a product of the designer’s imagination. Some feature zombies and Disney characters.
Aquarium visitors judge the contest. The lighthouse that receives the most votes wins the grand prize of $1,500. Five runner-ups also will receive cash prizes.
“Because each visitor gets a lighthouse ballot, the contest adds another element of family fun to an aquarium visit,” said Chris Loynd, the aquarium’s marketing director. “Kids and parents debate and compare their votes. Their opinions usually are quite different.”
Voting in the contest is free with general admission to the aquarium.
Winners will be announced during an evening reception Jan. 22.
For more details about the Maritime Aquarium, click here. The Maritime Aquarium is located at 10 N. Water St. in South Norwalk.
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