Winners named for the 'Build-a-Snowperson' contest
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From a snowdog to a surfing snowperson to one made entirely out of candy, there was no shortage of creativity during Michigan State University Department of Physiology’s ‘Build-a-Snowperson’ competition.
This year the ‘Physiology Snowfamily Tree’ snowballed away with the grand prize win. The display, created by communications manager Tyler Lee, is currently posted outside the physiology main office in room 2201 of the Biomedical and Physical Sciences Building or BPS. It’s made up of about 150 plastic cups with a photo of a physiology student, faculty, or staff member attached to it. A mirror hanging next to the 6-foot-tall art piece is a nod to the department’s ongoing inclusion goals.
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“I wanted to build something that tied physiology into it but can still be reflective of everybody else,” said Lee who also added different colored lights for each section of the snowperson. “So even if you’re not in the physiology department or your picture is missing, the mirror serves as a reminder that your presence is valued and welcomed here.”
Other creations that won top honors within its respective department or unit category is the surfing snowperson from the Crandall Lab that won top honors in the Department of Physiology category. The reigning champion won the competition the last time it was held in 2019.
"[The] inspiration came from a comic book style drawing at a local art store in Old Town," said Dawn Autio who is a research assistant in the Crandall Lab.
For the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics category, Claire Vieille’s illustration of her snowperson, named Captain Nemo, in a field of flowers bloomed into first place.
"I wanted to do something out of the ordinary," Vieille said.
In the final category among other departments and units participating this year including Sparty’s Refresh and the custodial staff, Kim Crosslan and Jennifer Roberts from the Department of Physics and Astronomy walked away with the win for their winter wonderland creation featuring Sweetie Prancealot the Snowman.
“The idea was all Jenn’s,” said Crosslan adding that they spent about $60 in materials. “She has been making wreaths with her stepmom for years. When we heard about this wonderful snowman contest, she rolled with it.”
Winners were decided by a panel of judges made up of faculty and staff from various colleges and departments across campus. This year marks the third time the competition has taken place. The 29 individuals and labs in both the BPS Building and the Interdisciplinary Science and Technology Building took their best shot at showing off their creative side.
“It was a pretty great turn out,” said event coordinator Jessica Spitzley. “Each snow person was unique, and everyone was so excited to participate.”
All participants this year did not shy away from showing off their skills. Take a look at all 29 entries. Who's your favorite?
