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IOWA 2  |  Block #8

iowa 2

 

iowa 2

 

 

Team Name:  The Driftless Snow Sculptors

Sculpture Title:  Backwater Shenanigans 

Artist Statement:  

While out for an afternoon float in the pond, Tad and his pal Hopper get the surprise of their lifetime as their canoe is thrust out of the water and precariously suspended in the air. Only Tad is aware of the true source of this dilemma as he spies Zippy the turtle emerging from below. Meanwhile, Hopper finds the turbulent ride entertaining and chooses to revel in the moment. However, he’s not the only pond critter enjoying himself, as it appears Zippy the turtle only wants to join the frogs on their afternoon excursion in the pond.
The story depicted represents a variation of the age old phrase, “when life gives you lemons...” To summarize, life may be full of twists and turns, ups and downs, and many bumps in the road, but it is how we choose to observe and address these obstacles that shapes and defines our life. We can either enjoy the ride or stress over the details.

Team Members:

  • Hugh McCarron (Captain) - I work for the City of Dubuque Engineering Department designing city projects. I am the owner of the Celtic Forge Blacksmith shop in Dubuque, Iowa. My hobbies include blacksmithing, watercolor painting, rollerskating, canoeing, hiking and exploring the outdoors, cooking and candy making. I started carving snow in 2010 and have carved  in Lake Geneva every year since.
  • Wayne McDermott - I grew up across the river in Galena, Illinois. I earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the University of Wisconsin, Platteville. I have been creating and maintaining exhibits at the National Mississippi River and Aquarium in Dubuque, Iowa for 38 years. My wife, Cathy and I have two children, Rachel and Aaron, a cat, and an old house that needs constant attention.  I like to hike, camp, kayak, and travel. I dabble at lots of different creative projects at home and at work. I have recently started getting into wood crafting projects. I first started carving snow from blocks when the museum started up “Ice Fest” about 18 years ago. I have participated in the Nationals in Lake Geneva three different years. I really enjoy the teamwork and camaraderie with my fellow sculptures. They are a unique group of people.  We hope to inspire others to get out in the snow and create!

  • Rachel Spurling 

 

Team Iowa is proudly sponsored by:

Tristan Crist Magic Theatre_logo   

 

 

Team Iowa 2 proudly hosted by:   

 

Harbor Shores_logo_2022