The Manchester Arts Commission held a wood carving-art creating contest out of a historic red oak that fell in front of Town Hall in 2011 during a horrific snow storm. That wood, in the hands of four wood artisans has become two beautiful bowls, a natural sculpture and, the winner, a 150 lb. Silkworm . . . the mascot of Manchester.
Chris Chaffin, a Manchester High School graduate and a Vernon resident, was the first place winner of the contest, which was announced last week on Heritage Day, part of Pride in Manchester Week.
Bob Eckert, Chairman of the Commission, announced the winners and distributed awards to Rick Meier who tied for third place with Lynda Zibbideo, and Steve Sottile who took second place.All four of the works were on display in the show window of Pinewood Furniture on Main Street for the week leading up to Imagine Main Street, June 6, during which anyone could vote for their favorite piece. Three judges, Mayor Leo Diana, MCC faculty member Susan Classen-Sullivan and Arts Commission member Pasqua Guzzi adjudicated the pieces as well.
Chaffin’s silkworm will be on display at Manchester’s Town Hall for a year. All winners received a monetary prize, for their artistic efforts, and the gratitude of the Manchester Arts Commission for participating in this first-time event.
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