Are Ewe an Artist? Downtown Wants Your Woolly Designs

Sheep are returning to the streets of Rochester.

But not until they get ready for the movies.

The city's Downtown Development Authority is looking to install dozens of fiberglass sheep throughout the city next summer. The public art project is intended to help bring people downtown while Main Street undergoes a $4 million renovation.

The Ewe Revue 2, as it is known, is a repeat of a 2001 public art project involving sheep. Why sheep? They pay homage to the city's heritage as a hub for wool processing.

"It's recognizable, and it's fun," said DDA Executive Kristi Trevarrow in a .

"It involves bringing art into the community. And, most importantly, it will draw people downtown," she said.

The sheep will be on display beginning May 4, 2012. When the public art show comes down in September, the sheep will be put up for auction, with all proceeds benefiting Rochester charities.

Ewe, too, can design a sheep

But before they can be put on display for all of Rochester to see, a few good artists are needed.

The DDA's special "Ewe Revue 2" committee is accepting applications from artists who wish to submit a sheep design; artists of any age may apply, whether professional or amateur.  

Artists whose designs are selected by a sponsor will be provided with either a life-size, blank fiberglass sheep or four mini sheep, and will be paid a $600 honorarium.

Sheep must be decorated using a Hollywood theme, which includes movies, movie stars, musicians and various celebrities.

Think "I'll be baaaaack" or "ewe had me at hello."

All applications must be received by Nov. 1. To receive an official entry submission package, visit DowntownRochesterMI.com/EweRevue, email Stacey@DowntownRochesterMI.com or call 248/656-0060.