The creation of a chalk painting takes many hours and is often not as simple as it seems. As I work almost exclusively with pastels and charcoals as a rule, it is a joy to create on the street and in a size not allowed inside my studio. These events also benefit the viewer who gets to interact with the artist while creativity is taking place. Most art is developed in seclusion and many of us truly enjoy getting to explain our creative process to the viewer as we work.

WHY WASH IT AWAY?

This is the most common question I get when creating pieces on the street. "It's such a shame you have to destroy such wonderful work. Can't you let it stay for at least a few days?" The answer that I've been given to this question is a smart one. In the past, when street art has been left and vehicle traffic resumes, accidents have increased as distracted drivers pay more attention to the art they are crossing rather than oncoming traffic or pedestrians. We as artists don't mind that the work is temporary. The more important concern is educating the public to the creative process and the joy - albeit fleeting - the pieces bring while they have life!

HISTORY

Street painting 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 creations.

History courtesy of the Larimer Arts Organization which presents La Piazza dell'Arte each June on Larimer Square in downtown Denver.