Art in Public Places
Longmont's Chalk Art Street Fair & Bin Market is a FREE two-day street-painting festival where more than 38 artists spend hours turning the streets of Longmont into a canvas of chalk art.
The Chalk Art Street Fair creates a venue for artists, vendors and visitors alike to enjoy art, live music and local artisan vendors for a fun family weekend. Participate in a special Pop up Dinner on Saturday evening -- stroll along the street and view the art in progress while enjoying a special food and wine pairing with Bin 46. |
2 Day Event Details 2021:
Saturday, September 4th: 10-6 p.m. FREE Farm to Table Strolling Dinner - Meet & Greet: 6-10 p.m. Sunday, September 5th: 10-5 p.m. FREE |
Past Event Featured ArtistsBryce Widom - Artist
www.brycewidom.com Mario Olvera - Instructor/Facilitator
mistermario.myportfolio.com Grace Gutierrez - Artist
www.gracegutierrezart.com |
History of Chalk ArtThe Longmont Chalk Art Street Fair 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. |
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