I would call myself an occasional artist. When I have time, I like to pick up a pencil or paintbrush and create, even if it’s just for myself. It’s a quiet, calming activity. But in 2014 I challenged myself to do art differently: in public, live, with chalk, on concrete. And I was only one of dozens of artists young and old who were up to the test.
It’s not as calming and certainly not as quiet, but the chalk art festival via dei Colori SLO offered something else: a chance to watch the community bring art to life. Beginning early Saturday morning, kids and seniors are sprawled out on the pavement next to each other, feverishly working on individual chalk paintings that collectively cover lower Monterey Street. And what’s more? The artists and onlookers know the work will be washed away come Sunday evening, so it’s important to take in each moment (and take lots of pictures).
If you’ve never seen a chalk art festival, I’d encourage you to check out via dei Colori SLO September 26-27. You’ll be dazzled by the colors, and maybe even surprised at some of the incredible talent we have here in San Luis Obispo. I won’t be painting the town this year, but I will definitely swing by to catch this one-weekend only art exhibit.