A Kinetic Art Race, also known as a Kinetic Sculpture Race, is a contest of human-powered amphibious all-terrain works of art.

1jdbuss
Jun 28, 2024
2 min read

We were having a nice dinner at Moonlight Grill, which is located just outside of Arcata CA, located on the Pacific Ocean, it was sunset, beautiful and a delicious dinner to boot. Our server was awesome and told us about this kinetic art race, she asked if we were going to attend. I replied, "I have no idea what you are talking about" she replied, oh its this awesome race of art in motion, I then replied, "so its artist that are building art works that move?" She then replied, " not exactly, its these machines that they build and race on land and in the water, you should check it out". So, we did... and WOW, what a shock. First you should know that Humbolt County in California is where all the legal pot smoking individuals are from, and boy they were enjoying the heck out of it on the day of the race. When we arrived, we looked at each other and felt like we slipped bac in time to the 70s. Lots of tie-died shirts, long hair, lots of tats, and a lot of very happy people.

But what is this you ask? I did the research for you and here it is. Kinetic Art Racing is A local tradition since 1969, the Kinetic Race is no parade! In the Kinetic Grand Championship bodies of art and artist's bodies are put to the test. There's 50 miles to go, over land, sand, water, and mud. These intrepid Kinetinauts are a unique breed of human. With a heart full of joy and a bucket full of tools, they face innumerable obstacles for just one reason ... For the GLORY! I have a hat that says "For the Glory"

Founded by metal sculptor Hobart Brown in 1969, this North Coast tradition has grown from a two-block dash down Main Street Ferndale to a 3-day marathon spanning over 40 miles of Humboldt County California’s towns, beaches, trails, and Rivers every Memorial Day Weekend.

You know, they say a picture is worth a thousand words... well that just might be the case here. Check out these photos and videos. Bottom line is if you get a chance to see this in action you will be very happy you did. It's a great time, with lots of carnival like items in the town square and they have great food, adult beverages and yea, you could get a little stoned if you wanted to.