The downtown Akron sidewalks provided an apt canvas for artists of all ages, thanks to a chalk art contest hosted last weekend by the Miller South School Art Boosters.
From Akron-centric designs that featured the Goodyear Blimp and LeBron James, to Frankenstein, purple deer and three-dimensional objects, the creative work of children and adults was on full display on the sidewalks near Summit Artspace, the Akron Art Museum and parts of E. Market Street.
The Miller South Sidewalk Chalk Contest exceeded expectations, with more than 50 sidewalk squares sponsored, according to organizers. (Photos: Dale Dong)
The purpose of the contest was to raise awareness for the art and audition process at Miller South School, said Julie Gorsuch, president of the Miller South School Art Booster Club.
“It’s so much fun to see these kids, they must be doing sidewalk chalk at home because some of the things they’re doing are pretty awesome,” she said.
A catalyst behind this public art event was Alison Rich, visual art instructor at Miller South School. “Some of the kids I see their work in class came up with completely different ideas,” said Rich. “Some kids had their parents working on a square next to them.”
The event exceeded expectations, with more than 50 sidewalk squares sponsored, said Gorsuch, who added that they’re already starting to plan next year’s event.
Judges of the event were Susan Yingling, art teacher emeritus at Miller South; Brenda Schneider, senior program officer for the Margaret Clark Morgan Foundation; and Alison Caplan, director of education for the Akron Art Museum.
CLICK HERE to see the photo album from the event.
For information, visit the event’s Facebook page.
