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For years, the Sheffield Island light, built in 1868, sent its beam into Norwalk's dark harbor so sailors could find their way. Today, the lighthouse welcomes visitors arriving by ferry, to explore and learn about how it safeguarded harbor traffic. Peck's Ledge Light also watched over Norwalk Harbor. Though now in disrepair, it's visible from Calf Pasture Beach. For nine years, these nearby historic relics have also inspired their neighbor, The Maritime Aquarium, to re-imagine lighthouses in its annual "Festival of Lighthouses" competition from November 13 through January 17. A holiday season perennial, Aquarium visitors can examine 24 fanciful, re-interpreted lighthouse creations, made from everything from wood, to clay to gingerbread to bottle caps. According to Aquarium Creative Director Chris Loynd, among the artists, there are two schools on how to attack the creative process. "Some folks go at it from the perspective of starting with a lighthouse and transforming it with a unique or unexpected design, while it seems that others create something wild and artistic and find a way to make it into a lighthouse. Contest guidelines for the interpretive lighthouses require they be three to six feet tall, with a working light and they cannot include shells or other animal byproducts. Entries for this year's competition, include some whimsical approaches, Frighthouse, North Pole Lighthouse, Bottlecap Point and Serpent Light," as well as realistic ones. As in years past, the Sheffield Island Light is among the competition entries. The lighthouses are on view throughout the Aquarium galleries. Visitors can cast a vote for their favorite and the most vote-getting builder receives $1,000 at a January 21 awards ceremony. Awards of $500 for second place, $250 for third place, $200 for fourth, $150 for fifth and $100 for sixth will also be given. The 2010 Festival of Lighthouses is included as part of Maritime Aquarium general admission, which is $9.95 - $12.95. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. seven days a week. For more information, visit the Aquarium's website.
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