Local Artist Climbs Mountain to Celebrate Degree

Press release submitted by Otok Ben-Hvar.

Firecracker art master Otok Ben-Hvar in his graduation performance art presentation clutches a simulated MFA diploma atop Mt. Washington, New Hampshire.

The 75-year-old New Port Richey resident crawled, in segments eight miles up the Mt. Washington Auto Road on hands and knees during pre-graduation performance art to retrieve his diploma at the 6,2888-foot summit. During this segment of the crawl in October, he fought hurricane condition wind and rains gusting between 65 and 80 mph in 32-degree temperatures.     

Ben-Hvar challenged himself to the climb as a task worthy to symbolize the importance of achieving his master’s degree, which was subsequently presented in February during graduation ceremonies.

Ben–Hvar, who has again reinvented himself, will return to Mt. Washington April 28-29 to complete the final segment of his arduous crawl. Friends, supporters and art lovers will be on hand to cheer him on, celebrate and witness his Ethereal Star Firecracker Art and Wish Upon a Star Art Series debut.

Ben-Hvar’s multi-faceted art exhibit will be held at the spacious and beautiful Mount Washinngton  Auto Road Lodge from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday April 28 and 29. All are welcome.