By Laura Bailey

The Carousel Museum is inviting carousel enthusiasts and photographers from around the world to showcase their creativity and passion for carousel art with the launch of its first-ever global photo contest.  

“We look forward to seeing the creative expressions that this contest will inspire, and are excited to share this journey with you,” Carousel Museum Marketing and Communications Manager Katie Bassett said. “Your involvement is not just about capturing moments, but also about preserving these magical pieces of art for future generations to enjoy.”

The Carousel Museum’s first-ever photo contest will celebrate the rich history, culture and artistic beauty of carousels. Entry is open to all participants from May 1 through Aug. 31. Winners are eligible to receive up to $250 in prize money, with the opportunity to be featured in a special photo exhibition at the Carousel Museum in September.

Community members who are interested in entering their photographs are encouraged to submit images that connect them to the world of the carousel. The photo contest will be broken down into several categories including, full carousel, individual carousel figure, person(s) riding a carousel, artistic interpretation of a carousel or carousel figure and a fan favorite category for the photo that receives the most votes. A special junior photographer category is open to younger participants aged 12 and under. 

There is an entry fee of $20 fee per photo submission that will be put towards supporting the museum’s mission to preserve and promote the heritage of carousel art. Entries into the photo contest will be judged by photographer and carousel historian Tobin Fraley and the experienced team at the Carousel Museum. Community members will also have an opportunity to vote for their favorite photos online with a $1 fee per vote.

The Carousel Museum has focused on education and the preservation of carousel memorabilia since they first opened their doors in 1991. The staff and volunteers are keeping those traditions alive while offering educational programs, workshops, and exhibitions. The vibrant cultural destination located on Riverside Avenue dedicated to the preservation and promotion of antique and modern carousel art.

For more information, please visit https://www.thecarouselmuseum.org.

Laura Bailey can be reached at lbailey@bristoledition.org

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