Canstruction

Canstruction

Canstruction Logo

Canstruction is a unique charity event that combines the creativity of the design and construction industry with a commitment to ending hunger. It involves the creation of large structures made entirely out of canned food. These structures are displayed to the public as a form of art and engineering, and after the event, all the cans are donated to local food banks.

History

Canstruction was founded in 1992 by Cheri Melillo, a member of the Society for Design Administration. The idea was to create a competition that would bring together architects, engineers, and contractors to build massive structures out of canned goods. The first event was held in New York City, and it has since grown into an international phenomenon with events held in over 150 cities worldwide.

The Competition

A mushroom-shaped structure made of cans

The Canstruction competition is open to teams from the design and construction industry, including architects, engineers, and students. Each team is tasked with designing and building a structure entirely out of canned food. The structures are judged in several categories, including Best Use of Labels, Structural Ingenuity, and Jurors' Favorite.

The competition typically takes place over a 12-hour period, during which teams must assemble their structures. The completed structures are then displayed to the public, often in prominent locations such as shopping malls or convention centers.

Structural Ingenuity

An example of structural ingenuity in Canstruction

One of the key judging criteria in Canstruction is "Structural Ingenuity." This category rewards teams that demonstrate exceptional creativity and engineering skills in their designs. Structures must be stable and self-supporting, often requiring innovative techniques to balance and interlock the cans without the use of adhesives or other supports.

Impact and Donations

After the competition, all the canned food used in the structures is donated to local food banks and hunger relief organizations. This aspect of Canstruction highlights the event's dual purpose: to showcase the talents of the design community and to provide much-needed food to those in need.

Since its inception, Canstruction has donated millions of pounds of food to help fight hunger. The event raises awareness about food insecurity and encourages community involvement in charitable activities.

Canstruction and Community

Canstruction event featuring Disney-themed structures

Canstruction events often engage the local community, inviting the public to view the structures and participate in voting for the "People's Choice" award. The events also serve as a platform for educating the public about hunger issues and the importance of community support in addressing these challenges.

Related Pages

• Architecture
• Engineering
• Charity
• Food bank
• Hunger relief