It's the Chinese year of the rabbit and the St. Clair Superior Development Corporation is celebrating by displaying 24 fiberglass bunny sculptures, painted and decorated by Northeast Ohio artists. Each sculpture is sponsored by a local business. They are being installed around the neighborhood today.

This is the sixth year the organization has hosted the public art event. The installation celebrates Cleveland's Asian, artistic and business communities in the St. Clair-Superior neighborhood.

"St. Clair-Superior has one of the highest Asian populations in Northeast Ohio," says project coordinator Becca Britton. "We have a blossoming arts district here and we also have a thriving business community. The community really appreciates it and celebrates it."

The public has come to embrace the sculptures, which began with the year of the dog. In early years there was a lot of vandalism and theft, Britton says, which has diminished over the years. "Everyone leaves them alone," she says. "They really appreciate them."

More than 90 artists submitted designs this year. A panel of three professional artists chose their favorites, which were then put into a portfolio for companies to choose from. Winning artists receive a $400 stipend and two tickets to a gala event.

This year's favorites include a rabbit exploding with butterflies and another blowing bubbles on roller skates. "Every year the artists are getting more creative," says Britton.

The rabbits will be on display through Labor Day. They will then be auctioned off, with proceeds going to next year's project.


Source: Becca Britton
Writer: Karin Connelly