Project Scare-A-Crow, an annual fall tradition, returns to Clark County on Friday, October 6. Assisted by professional artist Sherry Ringler, Project Jericho families will design 21 traditional scarecrows.
“Project Scare-A-Crow began seven years ago when Project Jericho created an art program that had families create scarecrows together,” said Kristi Limes, Project Jericho success coordinator. “The goal was to give families a project that allowed them to work collaboratively to build a scarecrow that showcased their artistic skills.”
Limes said last year, Project Jericho partnered with National Trail Parks and Recreation District to create a larger scarecrow exhibit that was opened to the public. The exhibit, which had nearly doubled in size, was moved to National Road Commons Park.
Three Clark State student teams are entering scarecrows into the competition including: The Headless Horseman, created by the Pumpkin Heads; Garden of Thrones, created by the Powerpuff Girls; and the Fortune Teller, created by The Dories.
“Clark State’s Small Group Communication course allows students to explore the processes groups use to complete projects,” said Julie Semlak, adjunct professor in arts and sciences at Clark State. “Project Scare-A-Crow is an opportunity for students to create a scarecrow from start to finish, as they are responsible for the design and construction.”
Semlak said this project is also fun for students and provides an opportunity to get to know their group-mates’ strengths and weaknesses.
Clark State students were assigned to groups at the beginning of the semester. Semlak said the hope is to encourage cohesion and collaboration. “This project is an opportunity for Clark State to support the community while collaborating with Project Jericho.”
Commons Park is located between West Main Street and West Columbia Street, two blocks west of St. Rt. 72, near the Madonna of the Trail in downtown Springfield. Judging begins October 6 and ends October 27. The 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners will be announced at the conclusion of the exhibit, following the official vote count.
Project Jericho is a collaborative program of Clark State Community College and Clark County Department of Job and Family Services with additional funding provided by the Ohio Arts Council and The Turner Foundation.