March 10, 2014 at 12:24 p.m.
Calling artists for Hodags on Parade
Calling artists for Hodags on Parade
"This year we have one large and five 'mini' Hodags in need of your help," DRI executive director Maggie Steffen said in a press release. "The five 'minis' are about half the size; approximately 3 feet long and 27 inches high. This size makes it easier to handle and to paint the statues. If you have ever thought about wanting to paint one of the 'beasts' and share it with the visitors of Rhinelander, now is the time."
A simple one-page application and artist's sketch of the Hodag is all that's required; applications are available at www.downtownrhinelander.com or by contacting Downtown Rhinelander, Inc. at (715) 362-7374. Applications will be accepted now through April 4, 2014. Designs will be selected in April and selected applicants will have approximately four weeks to paint the fiberglass sculpture. The large Hodag will be decided from the designs submitted.
"Please let us know if you wish your design to be considered for the large Hodag," Steffen noted. "Please keep in mind you will need a place large enough to house it and you need to be able to transport the statue."
Selected applicants receive a $60 stipend ($125 for the large statue) to help with art supplies and the artist's name will be included on all promotion materials. In addition, the applicant receives 10 percent of the sale of the Hodag art sculpture at the fall auction.
This year marks Downtown Rhinelander, Inc.'s sixth year of Hodags on Parade. "The project is a traffic-building promotion that allows the community to extend the story of the unparalleled legend of the Hodag," Steffen said.
Hodags on Parade have already been securing sponsors for the program - businesses, organizations and individuals that have assisted in the cost of the development, decoration, placement and maintenance of each of the Hodags. "But we would still appreciate several more," Stephen said. "This year you can be a program sponsor for $500."
The date for the "Hodag Howl"/ Auction has been set for Oct. 25. The proceeds will go to the downtown Rhinelander revitalization efforts including the free parking program, low interest loan program, directional banners, hanging flower baskets and the coordination of various events and promotions throughout the year.
If you are interested in being a sponsor, call Steffen at (715) 362-7374 or Project Chair Kathy Brich at (715) 493-3663.
The Hodag is a mythical creature and official symbol of Rhinelander. It was created in 1896 by Gene Shepard, a Rhinelander pioneer and famous prankster of the time. The history books note the original Hodag was fashioned by a skilled woodcarver named Luke Kearney and the Hodag was seven feet long and 30 inches high, black and hairy with two horns along its spine and short powerful legs armed with long claws. Today the Hodag is used on city and chamber letterhead and websites and is recognized worldwide as the symbol of Rhinelander.
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