What is it: Public Art Vermilion (PAV) is planning something special for the 2023 holiday season and the entire Vermilion community is invited to participate. The Buoy Tree Project is a fundraiser for
Public Art Vermilion, a Main Street Vermilion program, with a vision for “A Vermilion enriched and enhanced by public art.”
More than 200 buoys decorated by individuals, families, friends, neighbors, book clubs, service organizations and local businesses will hang on the wooden-framed “tree,” which will be placed in front of the Fulper Lot of Downtown Vermilion from the beginning of December through Ice A Fair on February 3, 2024.
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More than 200 decorated buoys will hang on a wooden-framed “tree,” similar to the tree from the 2021 Padanaram, Mass. project. (Photo/Lucy Vieira)“We’re creating an 11-foot buoy tree,” says PAV project chair, Janet Hannaway. “The inspiration for this project came from buoy trees often seen on the east coast in oceanside communities. We believe it will stand as a colorful and unique way to honor Vermilion’s own heritage as a fishing and boating town.”
“We’re inviting everyone who loves our ‘Small Town on a Great Lake’ to join us in what will be a true collaboration of community,” Hannaway says.
The buoys are a “blank slate” and come with directions for painting or decorating. “You do not have to be an artist to participate,” Hannaway says. “Brush-on paint, spray paint as well as stickers, glitter, rope, even decoupage will work on your creation. It’s a fun family activity as well.”
How to Get Involved: PAV will have the buoys clear-coated for durability and attach rope to make them ready for hanging.
“Participants can get their buoys back when the tree is taken down,” she adds. To participate, go to
mainstreetvermilion.org/pav where you can purchase buoys online. Delivery in the Vermilion area will be provided, if needed. Or, you can visit the Main Street Vermilion office at 685 Main St., 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Monday-Friday and noon- 4 p.m. on weekends to buy and pick up. Buoys are $25 for residents; $60 for businesses and organizations.
Bonus!: There will also be 20 artists from the Vermilion Arts Guild and throughout the community painting buoys that will be on display in the window at Erie and Anchor and auctioned off during Ice A Fair festivities in February.
What is Public Art Vermilion?: Public Art Vermilion is a Main Street Vermilion program, with a vision for “A Vermilion enriched and enhanced by public art.” Past projects of Public Art Vermilion include the award-winning Postcard Project and the group is currently working toward a sculpture installation at Main Street Park.
Contact Info: For additional information, contact Hannaway at (614) 403-8165 or Main Street Vermilion at (440) 963-0772.