The Hingham 4th of July Parade Committee would like to thank all of the Hingham 5th graders who participated in this year’s Parade Button Design contest. We had many thoughtful and inspiring designs to choose from, among the hundreds that we received. This year’s theme, “Celebrate Hingham’s Natural Beauty,” was captured in many fun, different and whimsical ways, featuring: Wompatuck State Park, World’s End, Hingham’s beautiful beaches and shorelines, historical monuments, and Hingham Square.
Ultimately, the group was whittled down to a "Final 4" that required much deliberation, as the committee debated each design. One top contender was disqualified as the theme written on the button was very different than the actual theme; unfortunately, these are the decisions that can eliminate a potential winning design! We cannot stress the importance of writing the “correct” theme on the button. At the end of the night, it comes down to the visual expression of the artwork that captures the essence of the parade theme.
The winning button design incorporated an almost 'watercolor' depiction of World’s End and Hingham’s Harbor at sunset in a map-like context. The colors truly captured Hingham’s Natural Beauty in a very calming and peaceful way.
The Committee selected Sophia Kondracki from St. Paul’s School, as this year’s 2019 Button Design Winner.
The 2019 Parade Buttons will hopefully first be available on Wednesday, March 27th from 5-7:30 p.m. in the Hingham High School at the annual PizzaPalooza to benefit SNAP - following that, the buttons will be available for a parade donation at many local shops in the downtown and Hingham Center locations. Remember, each donation helps pay for our July 4th Parade!
There will be a formal gathering at an upcoming Committee Meeting, when Sophia and her family are available, where we will congratulate Sophia in person and present her with a gift that commemorates her beautiful design.
The Parade Committee is very excited to use this button design, and we look forward to selling out the buttons through the efforts of the Hingham Rotary Club!
Thank you,
Mary Ellen Lahiff & Jim Murphy
2019 Hingham 4th of July Parade Committee