Dewey the Cat Inspires Community Creativity in Library Art Contest
Artists of all ages celebrate Dewey in library’s first drawing contest.
Courtesy of Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun County
ANNISTON — The Public Library of Anniston and Calhoun County hosted a drawing contest for amateur artists to depict Dewey the Cat, the library’s feline mascot.
The library announced the winners through a Facebook post on Feb. 3.
Amy Stone of the library staff put the contest together. It was a novel experience for everyone, as it was the first time a drawing contest had been sponsored just for the flesh-and-blood feline.
The responses to the contest were encouraging, possibly the beginning of a new contribution to the artistic life of the community.
“We’re always looking for meaningful ways to bring the community together, and this feels like the kind of program that could grow into something special over time,” said Stone.
Participants ranged in age from 10 to 64: children, young adults and adults. Dividing the contestant pool allowed the contest to be fair and inclusive, according to Stone.
The library kept the guidelines open, welcoming all art styles and encouraging artistic interpretation. Accuracy to Dewey’s appearance mattered, but it wasn’t the only criteria judges were looking for. Submissions were judged on creativity and effort, as some entries included realistic details, and others contained more imaginative themes, according to Stone.
“The goal wasn’t to limit creativity, but to let people express their own version of Dewey through whatever medium felt natural to them,” said Stone.
The winners each received a prize package of their artwork on different products and will be featured on the library’s official Dewey merchandise, according to a Facebook post by the library introducing the contest.
Stella G., winner of the children’s category, had no trouble at all coming up with an idea. Her piece, “Hey Dewey,” was a sketched portrait highlighting his brown spots and green eyes. A passion for drawing sparked her interest in the contest and ultimately made her a winner, according to Stella.
“It felt amazing, I got a cup and a bag! I always use my bag when I go to church,” said Stella.
Stella G. is the winner of the children’s category.
Courtesy of Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun County
Josilyn L. was the winner of the young adult category. Her piece, “Dewey the Kitty,” featured Dewey in three different angles, highlighting his fur and whiskers.
Josilyn L. is the winner of the young adult category.
Courtesy of Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun County
Bonita K. was the winner for the adult category. Her piece, “Dewey on a Bookshelf,” showcased Dewey surrounded by books she named herself.
Bonita K. is the winner of the adult category.
Courtesy of Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun County