Live and Direct Chalk Art Festival follows street painting traditions that originated in 16th century Renaissance Italy when artists began transforming asphalt into canvas using chalk. The artists were called “madonnari,” after their customary practice of recreating chalk paintings of the Madonna. Historically, madonnari were known for their life of travel and freedom, making their living from coins received from passers-by.

With World War II came many hardships, greatly reducing the number of these artists. The art form was not officially brought back to life until 1972 when the small town of Grazie di Curtatone in Italy started the first International Street Painting Competition. Today, artists worldwide are taking to the streets, bringing with them new ideas, techniques and excitement for this ancient form of expression. Handmade French pastels have replaced the simple chalks previously used and the paintings have become complicated images of traditional master-style works, modern pieces and surreal chalk art creations.

Street Painting
The creation of a chalk painting takes many hours and is often not as simple as it seems. First, the artists must draw an outline of the original painting in proper proportion using pencil or a charcoal pastel. Then they begin to lay the base of colors. Using a number of colored pastels, the artist layers the chalk, blending the colors to create shadow, contrast and depth. So one might ask, ‘why street paint when the artists’ efforts disappear immediately?’ As avid street painters will tell you, this is performance art, where the process of creating the work is more important than the finished piece. For many, the dialogue with spectators can be as rewarding as creating their masterpieces. People can view the work in all stages of progress, from layout and design, to color application, and of course the finished creation.

CALLING ALL ARTIST

Live and Direct Chalk Art Festival artists are the stars of the show, and we do our best to treat them like VIPs.

The festival includes more than 200 professional, amateur and student artists from around the state.

Interested in being an artist? The 2020 artist application closes on March 23 for all group and individual entries.

If you would like to be added to our artist mailing list and receive additional information, please email us here.

KIDS KORNER

Be sure to stop by the Kids’ Korner and encourage your budding artist to create his or her own masterpiece.

Please contact us to learn more about Kids’ Korner sponsorship opportunities.

For a small donation, your child can get a goodie bag with chalk and take to the pavement to create an inspired work of art. Donations benefit Motionphics In Action and its programming.

CAPTURE FEST PHOTO CONTEST

This is your opportunity to add some art of your own by capturing the beauty and color of the festival.

Upload your photo entry to the LIVE& DIRECT CHALK ARTS INSTAGRAM page and hashtag #Live&DirectChalkArtFestival for a chance to win prizes!