Calling all Artists and Makers!

Get your paddle on…

Join the Harbor History Museum for a rare and wonderful “Raise the Paddle” art contest, exhibit, and fund-raising event. We are calling all artists and woodworkers to create a painted, sculpted, carved, or otherwise uniquely-you paddle/oar inspired work of art.

These pieces will be showcased at the museum for the month of August 2024 and auctioned off to support the museum. We have a limited number of blank oars and paddles available if you would like to reserve one, or artists can make or secure their own. This contest and auction event is part of the museum’s fun build-up to the opening of the new Maritime Gallery. We’ve already received two gorgeous “Celebration Paddles” made by much-loved artist Les Eelkema, and we welcome other artists to create amazing paddles, oars or related artworks.

Two contest winners will be named:

People’s Choice (done by visitor vote) and Board’s Choice, both with $500 cash prizes for the winning artists. All paddles and oars will be considered donations to the museum for fund-raising purposes.

Entries Close: June 30, 2024 (art drop-off 11am-2pm)

Exhibit of All Entries Opens: August 1, 2024

Online Auction: August 20-23, 2024

Questions/Contact: director@harborhistorymuseum.org

Please complete the form at right to let us know that you’re planning to submit a paddle, oar or other related item/art.

Mini-Inspiration Gallery