Chalk Competition on a Whim

While in Woodstock, VT for a wedding of a dear friend, it turned out the town was having their annual “Taste of Woodstock” block party on the same weekend. Since we had no part in the ceremony and didn’t have to be there until 4pm, Joshy and I wandered around Elm Street only to come across a street chalk competition put on by Artistree Community Art Center. After a little convincing, I went and took a few photos of the main street, and got to work in the last open spot. I was HOURS behind the others, but I think my result after two hours was pretty sweet.

My inspiration was our weekend plans: wander Woodstock and celebrate the nuptials of my favs. It also helped that I could take ideas I used for the mural I did back in April and apply them here too. The woman next to me was drawing a pair of awesome mushrooms that she said came from a commission she had just finished as well.

The entries were everything from bubbles, to super woman, to snowy owls, to my streetscape. By the end, I was covered in chalk dust, had given up on my manicure being intact (it actually survived.. miraculously), and was pleased with my postcard from Woodstock.

In the end, no prize was won. I think next time I need more of a plan (ha) that includes having more details done sooner. Like most of my work, it all comes together in the end, but not before. This is problematic when there is open voting the entire time you’re chalking. Another issue, not starting at the same time as everyone else. But that was a known problem before beginning.

I should have taken note of whatever chalk Artistree provided. It was great. They also provided sheets of felt which was imperative for blending. I had never tried that. I have only used q-tips or very little blending with my fingertips. What a great show-up-and-have-a-go adventure. I will definitely step up to the plate next time. Keeping my eyes peeled!

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