Un-bear-lievable snow sculpting returns

A local Winnipeg woman is spending hours sculpting snow in her yard once again this winter, helping herself as well as the community.

Vinora Bennett is back at snow sculpting this winter in her yard. Last year her yard was known as Bears on Barrington, with 23 sculpted polar bears. This year, it's more than just bears. 

"I got a little bit of a late start because it has just been so cold outside," says Bennett. "Last year I used water to mold the bears. This year it was so cold I had to pack a box full of snow."

Bennett sometimes spends over five hours outside during the day and evening to sculpt, especially if it's not too cold. 

"There's an abundance of snow this year but only one me. Last year I did my first box at the Festival du Voyageur so that is carving out a sculpture from a block of snow. You kind of have to envision it and find it in the block. This year I decided to do the same idea at home."

Packing a wooden box full of snow is no easy task. Bennett says her husband makes the box while her son helps her shovel the snow in and stomp it down in between.

"I did three bears in the trees this year. I just staple some wire to the bark and I use wet snow so I do it on a nice day."

On top of polar bears, Bennett has a fisherman sculpture and an igloo with authentic snowshoes leaned up against it.

Some sculptures created by Vinora Bennett. (Facebook)

For a Good Cause

While Bennett enjoys sculpting, she is also doing it to help the most vulnerable in Winnipeg.

"As of yesterday, I put out a donation box for Union Gospel Mission. My goal is to try and raise some money for them. We know that this is the time of year they need us the most."

People interested in seeing her sculptures and donating can find it all on Barrington Ave just off Dunkirk Drive in Winnipeg. 

On top of helping others in the community, Bennett creates snow sculptures to help with her own mental health. 

"It's been tough and it seems to never end. I do feel hopeful, though, keeping myself busy outside. It keeps me away from all the negativity. That's what ice sculpting has done for me. I'm able to work at my own pace and it keeps my mind busy. Also, the encouragement from people in the community is really uplifting."

Bennett mentioned that she has been blessed by a local company called Tough Duck with all-new winter gear so that she can continue sculpting throughout the freezing cold temperatures of the Manitoba winter. 

"This is the time when we need to stick together."