Dogwood Arts Chalk Walk welcomes artists, onlookers
Dogwood Arts hosted their eighth annual Chalk walk on Saturday, April 9.
//Photo by Jolin Baker
The Dogwood Arts Chalk Walk occurs annually in Market Square when the dogwoods are in full bloom for spring. The chalk walk is not where you walk around with chalk in your hands or on your feet. It is for artists and non-artists alike to come to Knoxville to chalk masterpieces on the sidewalks.
The artists themselves range from the age group seven to senior citizens. There are no artistic qualifications to join the Dogwood Chalk Walk.
“This is our first year, and my 9-year-old son has been begging me to sign up,” said Johnna Bullard, who drew a Knoxville inspired chalk piece.
Her son chalked the Knoxville skyline at night with a Batman signal shining in the background.
“I like it when the crowd dies down, and I can go stand at the base of the drawings and see the full effect,” Bullard said.
Many artists drew original artwork that they came up with on the spot, or they paid tribute to famous artists by depicting them on the sidewalks of Market Square. Some of them left their Instagram username at the bottom of their piece.
The Chalk Walk has been growing in popularity since it was it was first started eight years ago. People get to share pictures they draw everyday with the world, like Sara Smith, who drew a picture to celebrate upcoming warmer weather.
“I draw flowers like this all the time,” Smith said.
For more information on the Dogwood Arts Festival and the Chalk Walk, visit their official website.
Photos by Jolin Baker
Edited by Taylor Owens
