Art is alive in downtown Warsaw this summer! Sixteen life-like statues created by American Sculptor Seward Johnson grace the sidewalks and street corners within walking distance of the Courthouse Square.

Walk-n-Wander Warsaw is a free exhibit available to visit daily from now through Sept. 28.

The sculptures are an interactive exhibit, so visitors are encouraged to photograph and interact with these fantastic creations. And now, your interaction can win up to $250 cash.

Bring a camera and your creative imagination, then enter the photo contest. There are five categories: Age 17 and Under Only, Amateur Artist, Professional Artist, Digitally Enhanced Photo and Mixed Media. 

A panel of judges will award 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd place winners in each category.  Plus, there will be one People’s Choice winner named and that person will receive $250 plus a $100 framing certificate.

The Seward Johnson exhibit can also inspire art in the written word. Kosciusko Literacy Services is sponsoring an essay writing contest. There are four age groups and five categories for judging. Writers are invited to create a story or poem based on one or more of the sculptures on display.

Visit warsaw.in.gov where guidelines and details to participate in the contests will be posted. Entries for the essay contest will be on display at the Sept. 5 Downtown First Friday event. Entries for the photo contest will be on display at the Latte Lounge and Gallery from Sept. 2 to Oct. 1.

Pick up a brochure with map at an area business, or download at warsaw.in.gov. For questions or further information, contact the Kosciusko County Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-800-6090 or livewellinthemoment.com.