The 9th annual "Art of Recycling" metal sculpture competition and public art display took place July 21 & 22 as part of the 2009 Minneapolis Aquatennial celebration. A wide variety of outstanding entries made this year's event a challenge for the judges and a delight for visitors. View all entries

First prize went to Rabi Sanfo for his "Chronicles of a Warrior"

Sculptures are made entirely from recycled scrap metal collected by Northern Metal Recycling. Details for this year's contest are available on the 2009 rules page.

Northern Metal Recycling sponsors the annual event to support local artists and to promote recycling awareness.

All entered sculptures were displayed to the public at the Northern Metal Recycling Minneapolis Aquatennial open-air gallery on the Nicollet Mall in front of the IDS Crystal Court.

 

Placing the display in the heart of downtown Minneapolis allowed easy and free access for a wide range of visitors.

Kyle Fokken's entry caught the eye of these young art lovers.

Artwork was judged on originality, artistic merit, and creative reuse of recyclable materials. Back this year was the popular "People's Choice" award as determined by public voting.

Minneapolis Aquajesters admire Dillon Allen's artwork.

Artists used the opportunity to meet with visitors and get comments on their work. View all sculptures.