Lego bricks

LEGO bricks will be the building blocks for Everson Museum of Art's "2015 LEGO Design Challenge." The theme is "Build Your Syracuse."

(The Associated Press)

SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Everson Museum of Art is challenging creative minds to use LEGO bricks to re-imagine the city of Syracuse in a contest. Its "2015 LEGO Design Challenge" theme is "Build Your Syracuse."

Entries should be follow these guidelines outlined by Curator of Education Kimberly Griffiths: Think about the buildings, structures, and modes of transportation that exist in Syracuse. What does Syracuse need? What can be improved and how? What's missing?

The challenge will be divided into four categories: Children, 12 years and younger; Teens, 13 to 17 years old; Adults, 18 years and older; Group or Families, multiple people working on one entry. Designs must be constructed on a LEGO baseplate and not exceed 20 inches wide, 20 inches long and 24 inches high.

The deadline for entries is May 1. Entry fees are $10 for Everson members and $15 for non members. To enter, fill out an entry form and email a photo of your LEGO design. There are no residency requirements, but entrants must deliver their creations. Finalists will be notified May 15.

The finalists' designs will be featured in an exhibition, titled "Bricks and Blocks," from June 5 to Aug. 9 at the museum.

A panel of professionals will judge the creations based on: on creative application of LEGO bricks, imaginative design and concept, difficulty of execution, quality of display and vision.

Prizes have yet to be decided, but will be awarded to winners in each of the categories. "The real prize is going to have your design exhibited at the museum," said Sarah Massett, assistant director.

Besides the competition, Everson has planned complementary events, including the free outdoor screening of "The LEGO Movie" at 8:30 p.m. Aug. 6 on the Everson Community Plaza.

A LEGO Happy Hour Workshop will be from 6 to 8 p.m. July 30 for adults, 21 years and older. Syracuse University Professor Gail Hoffman will help participants create a stop-motion animation short film. Tickets are $35 for members and $45 for non members and include materials and light refreshments. A cash bar will be available. To register, call Kimberly Griffiths at 474-6064 or send an email.

Everson Museum of Art is at 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. For more information on the challenge, call Griffiths at 474-6064 or send an email.

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