The Kansas Wheat Commission is challenging the creativity of Kansas bread makers and Kansas photographers with the Bread Sculpture Contest and the Kansas Wheat Photography Contest, both part of the Kansas State Fair held Sept. 6-15.

The Bread Sculpture Contest offers those of all ages the chance to put their artistic hands to work creating sculptures that blow the judges away with creativity and artistic merit.

Past winners have created a family of turtles, a turkey centerpiece for the Thanksgiving table and an American flag. Bread sculptures get extra points for creativity and unique design. The judges are also looking for crisp details, execution, visual impact, color palate and complete instructions with photos.

Sculptors can try out some ideas in many counties by entering their local county fair as a doorway to qualifying for the state fair. Entrants can contact county fair coordinators to determine whether or not their county is offering a local contest.

"Bread sculptures are a beautiful way to mix art and science," says Cindy Falk, nutrition educator for Kansas Wheat. "The options for shaping are nearly limitless, so what we're really looking for are unique creations that showcase the versatility of bread."

Entries must include a typed, detailed recipe including shaping instructions with step-by-step photos or sketches on an 8.5 by 11 inch sheet of paper. While there are no size restrictions, small entries, such as rolls, must be presented with six individual sculptures. All entries must be pre-entered with the Kansas State Fair by Aug. 13th.

Not a sculptor? Take a photo

The Kansas Wheat Photography Contest is the perfect fit for those with a keen eye and a great camera. The contest includes photographs featuring all phases of the wheat industry.

These color photographs will be used to promote Kansas as America's No. 1 Wheat State. All Kansans — both amateur and professional photographers — are invited to capture the story of Kansas wheat.

"We want to see photos that tell the story of Kansas wheat farmers," says Jordan Hildebrand, assistant director of communications for Kansas Wheat. "Whether it's beautiful landscapes or farm family fun, we want to share the wheat story with consumers around the world. What better way to do that than through photographs?"

Any subject featuring wheat may be entered: seeding, storage, wheat fields, harvest, custom crews, grain trade, milling, wheat products, baking and more. We want to see how wheat impacts your life, and they say a picture is worth a thousand words, so show us what wheat means to you. We want you to tell us your story through a photograph or two.

Visit the Home Baking Association or the National Festival of Breads' own list of bread shaping ideas for some inspiration.

Source: Kansas Wheat, which is solely responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.