They at least have to be included in the mural tribute to the Cincinnati Zoo star, says one of the finalist artists.
For artist Dick Close, Fiona the hippo is all about the fans.
And that’s why you will find some her youngest admirers prominently featured in his design for the Fiona Mural contest powered by MEMI – Music & Entertainment Management Inc.
„I hope (viewers) feel they are part of Fiona’s habitat and are sharing the sense of discovery that the children in the foreground feel,“ said the Montgomery-based artist.
Nonprofit ArtWorks and Fiona’s home, the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, will produce a mural this summer to honor the premature Nile hippopotamus that beat the odds to survive and thrive.
Close’s work is one of five final designs. You can vote for your favorite here.
The voting will continue through May 21. You can vote each day.
The winning design will appear at 910 Race St.
Close was also inspired by ArtWorks public art program, a 20-year effort that has resulted in more than 100 murals in the area.
„I am a big supporter of public art and specifically the Cincinnati murals, which have set a high standard for future murals,“ he said.
Last year, Close was a semifinalist for a downtown mural competition by Canton and the NFL. A freelance brand designer, illustrator and watercolorist, Close has also designed posters for the Cincinnati Soap Box Derby and Summerfair.
The winner will be announced May 25.
