Creativity in a Time of Crisis

Piece by Stephanie Turner, owner of Jaquito.

The most challenging of times often bring out the best in people. That’s certainly the case with Eric Bauerle and his idea to celebrate creativity during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bauerle and his wife, Gina, were tired of the constant negativity on social media and tv. He decided it was time to spread some positivity, so he started The Covid Creations, a friendly, community competition of creativity.

Sponsored by D’Amore Interiors, the contest calls neighbors and friends to tap into their creative side and make anything they want. Projects will be displayed on the sidewalk in the University Hills neighborhood for friends to drive by and check out the submissions.

“It seemed like the perfect opportunity for something like this, since most people are stuck at home doing hobbies,” says Bauerle. There are three rules for projects: 1. Pieces must be made during the stay-at-home order. 2. Pieces should be encouraging and uplifting! 3. Materials used must be under $200.

Piece by Jon and Pam Dean, owners of Denver Cornhole Games.

On Wednesday, April 29, 2020, the four partners at D’Amore Interiors will be judging 1st, 2nd and 3rd place and the prize will be $350 worth of certificates to a local restaurant. Pieces will be displayed from 8:30 am – 6:00 pm on the west side of the intersection at E. Vassar and S. Vine in Denver. Bauerle’s neighbor will join the fun and play live music during part of the day.

It goes without saying that every contestant will be following social distancing guidelines. Only one person will be on the sidewalk at a time, and everyone will be required to wear a mask and stand at least six feet apart.

The response to The Covid Creations has been widespread and inspiring. Neighbors and friends can’t wait to see what the 45 contestants submit for the competition. Gina Bauerle says, “I had no idea how many creative neighbors we had! It’s cool how people can come together in stressful times. I can’t wait to see more!”

We can’t wait, either. Check back on Thursday to check out the winners of The Covid Creations.

THE WINNERS

1ST PLACE: Melanie Bindon, owner of Playful Mirrors. Her piece of art had it all: uplifting, creative, and amazing craftsmanship. The wolf symbolizes the howling everyone does at 8:00 every night. It also pays tribute to our amazing healthcare workers.

2ND PLACE: DJ Irvin and her incredibly creative “Paint Brush People” scene. The ability to make old paint brushes have so many different distinct looking faces was amazing and made all of us smile.

3RD PLACE TIE: Luna Lazuli and her fairy house creation. We were all baffled by what a creative and beautiful piece you made out of things you collected throughout the neighborhood!

3RD PLACE TIE: Andrew Patch, co-owner of AP DADO, and his Metal Bird Sculpture! This was made out of leftover tubing and was certainly put to good use. It was very well made and we all appreciated the creativity & talent it took to make.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE: Megan Vanderhoff, Freelance Graphic Designer at Muse Graphics. She had the “Wander” digital creation that was made into a poster.