UC presents annual Duck Tape exhibition

America’s favorite fix-all since its World War II introduction, duct tape has been used for just about anything — from saving lives early in America's space exploration program to home improvement projects. And now students and faculty members from the University of the Cincinnati and the College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) have found yet another project-based approach to the material: An exhibition of large-scale sculptures to be displayed outdoors at UC prior to their departure for the 16th Annual Avon Heritage Duck Tape® Festival outside of Cleveland.

Utilizing thousands of rolls of Duck Tape®, students have created three-dimensional works inspired by this year’s "Sweet 16" theme. Interpretations include “SWEET-est Hot Rod," "The DuckCup Cake," "DUCKy Charms,” a “Duck Tape Tiara” and a large-scale “Gummy Bear Lounge,” to name a few.

The work will be displayed outdoors on the UC campus green at the corner of Martin Luther King Boulevard and Clifton Avenue June 8-9 with installation taking place Friday, June 7.

There will be a reception on campus noon-3 p.m., Saturday, June 8 (rain or shine), before the work heads to Avon, Ohio, to become one of the main attractions for the more than 60,000 Duck Tape® enthusiasts that will attend the 16th Annual Avon Heritage Duck Tape® Festival June 13-15.

The course is led by DAAP Professor Joe Girandola with assistance from artist Rick Wolhoy. The class also collaborated with child artists from the Clifton Cincinnati Recreation Commission after-school program, who created an amazing Duck Tape® candy necklace.

The course is sponsored by and made possible by ShurTech Brands, LLC, the company that manufactures Duck® brand duct tape. Special thanks to the 1819 Innovation Hub, where the course was held this semester.