Canstruction® combines the competitive spirit of a design competition with a unique way to help feed the hungry of the Tri-State area. The event includes competing teams, led by architects, engineers and contractors, who showcase their talents by designing and building giant sculptures made entirely of canned foods, all within a 10’ x 10’x 8’ high space.

“Got Soup?” – the VPS entry – was voted the Juror’s Favorite, winning first place, for Evansville’s first annual Canstruction® competition held at Washington Square Mall this spring. The VPS/St. Paul’s Episcopal Team landed the first place competition award, as well as the Structural Integrity Award. The participants who worked on our team were Emily Phillips (Team Captain), Father Richard Gobold, Roger and Mary Winstead, Robert Ratcliff, Dave Black, Sarah Schuler, Anna Beth Pfafflin, Madeline LaPlante and Jeanie Hadra.

The winning entry was made out of approximately 1,277 cans of Campbell soup, canned chicken breast and beef stew. The structure consisted of a seven foot diameter soup bowl with a large spoon extending out of it, directly referencing the hunger that exists in our area. The judges cited structural innovation, three-dimensionality, good use of labels in the composition, and integration of design criteria as their reasons for awarding the two top prizes to “Got Soup?”

Other teams who were part of the competition included the University of Evansville, the best use of labels award; Vectren, the best meal award; and Alcoa, the most cans used award. At the close of the exhibition, all of the canned food items, used to create the structures, were donated to the Tri-State Food Bank. Thanks to everyone who participated and supported this important event to help feed the hungry in our community.

To learn more about Canstruction® visit http://www.canstruction.org/.