Lockport Ducks Raise More Than $42K For Summer Art Series

LOCKPORT, IL — The city raised more than $42,000 after auctioning off decorated 3-foot ducks, which were part of Lockport's Summer Art Series. The ducks could be spotted around town all summer, and were a part of the Summer Art Series Committee's "Keep Our Small Businesses Afloat" program.

Each duck was displayed in front of a small business in Lockport and decorated by artists chosen by the Illinois State Museum. The city auctioned off the ducks earlier this month, and the money raised will go back into the Summer Art Series to provide more art in the future, committee chairperson Wendy Streit said.

Officials said the small ducks raised $1,266, while the large ducks raised $41,700, for a total of $42,966. According to the city, the duck that was auctioned off for the most money was "firequackers," which was painted dark blue with fireworks. It sold for $6,200.

The cost of the ducks, the artists and advertising came from private businesses, according to the city. The businesses were able to operate with minimal disruption over the past year and wanted to help their fellow entrepreneurs "stay afloat," city officials said.

The ducks ended up in a variety of places after the auction, Streit said. "Firequackers" still remains in Lockport, and can be found at Highland Ridge Apartments in the sales building at 14158 Hilltop Lane. Another duck can be found at Paradise Bay at 105 W. 10th St., and other ducks ended up at resident's homes.

Streit said the committee isn't looking at a similar program for next year, but "can't rule out something in the future."

"We are excited about new possibilities," she said.

• Lockport Helps Keep Businesses Afloat With Duck Art Installations

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