For over 50 years, Knoxville has celebrated the arrival of spring with the annual Dogwood Arts Festival. The event runs for about two weeks and coincides with the blooming of our Dogwoods, Redbuds, Weeping Cherry trees, and spring flowers of every color and form.
The festival, a testament to our vibrant community, features driving trails throughout our city, where our residents and visitors can view elaborate flower gardens at the peak of bloom. Both visual and performing art and artists are featured, showcasing our thriving arts community. In short, there is something for everyone, and our community, filled with pride, is eager to share this celebration of spring with you.
One event that began about five years ago and has since become a sensation is the “Chalk Walk.” This event, filled with spontaneity and creativity, invites artists to participate by creating works of art on the sidewalk of our downtown Market Square. We had an unbelievably beautiful spring day on Saturday (4/6), so Helen and I couldn’t resist the urge to drive downtown and witness this year’s 300 Chalk Walk artists in action, ready to amaze and, in some cases, amuse us.
We arrived around 3:30 that afternoon and joined an enormous crowd on our downtown Market Square. Earlier that morning, every participant was issued an identical tray of sidewalk chalk and directed to their individual “canvas” according to their category or group (individual, pair, school-age, etc.). All the artists were busy at work and eager to complete their work before the judging process, which was scheduled to begin soon.
Helen and I strolled, fascinated by the works in progress. The competitors consisted of artists of every hew and stripe. We met one artist who told us he was twelve years old. Another was fifteen, but this was her fourth competition. Her work was excellent. Several participants worked as pairs, but most of them drew solo.
Standing around every work of art were groups endlessly taking pictures and letting loose with “oohs” and “wows.” “Amazing” was the word I heard most often. I had my camera with me, came close to filling a memory card, and spent most of Sunday afternoon selecting a representative sample to share with Easin’ Along readers. The task was difficult; you’ll see why if you scroll through them. Please click on any image to enlarge it and enjoy it from a bigger window.
Before I send you on your way, I need to note that hundreds of dogs (and one pig) were in attendance, and I’ve shared a few here. The two Great Pyrenees attracted quite a large group of admirers.
As I write this, it is pouring outside, and I can’t help but think of those incredible drawings trickling into a downtown drain. At least we’ll have a clean slate for next year’s competition.
Note: My friend, Alan Sims, who publishes the daily blog Inside of Knoxville, also attended Chalk Walk and posted pictures of every drawing. You can see them by visiting his blog (click here).
Delray, a town south of us, hosts an annual chalk walk, but we have never attended. After seeing all these beautiful drawings, I’ll be more inclined to check it out.
It looks like you had a beautiful spring day to attend. Too bad the rain washed it all away so quickly.
Good morning, Suzanne,
Our Chalk Walk is always a wonderful experience, and we were blessed with a delightful day. This year’s competition featured more younger artists than I can remember from the past and they were very impressive. It’s also a great way to walk for exercise–I maxed out my daily step goal so, I was able to visit one of the watering holes on the Square. Have a great weekend, and please stay in touch! We’re off to Charleston to babysit! Joe
We had the privilege of visiting your beautiful city and downtown market square last fall. I bet it was even more fun with the addition of the chalk art. “Amazing” is right! I am always impressed by people that are willing to put that much time and effort into a work of art, knowing it will disappear with the next rain. True artists!
Hi, Marian!
Great to hear that you visited Knoxville! If you come again, feel free to reach out and I’ll give you the dime tour. The Chalk Walk drew 300 very talented artists and it was a joy to watch them create their work on a delightful day to be out and about. Thanks for stopping by and have a great weekend. Joe
Joe, these are all stunning works of art – so creative and colorful! The entire festival must be one big, glorious feast for the eyes. What a delightful day for you and Helen! By the way, don’t think that I didn’t notice that the little pig’s friend was wearing Buc-ee’s apparel. Hugs to you and Helen!
Hey, there!
The festival is a great way to show off our city in the spring, and seems to grow a little bit every year. We had so much fun walking around and watching creative people create. Buc-ee’s is an event all by itself, and we have one just east of here that is a fabulous place to people-watch…and the gas is cheap, too! Thanks for stopping by. Enjoy your weekend! Joe
Joe, I think this is the third year I’ve “attended” the chalk art festival through your blog. Thanks for taking us along! One of these days we need to see it in person. It looks like you had a gorgeous day for the fun event.
The last chalk painting “Green Eyes” is extraordinary. It reminds me of the famous photograph of the Afghan girl that was on the cover of National Geographic many years ago.
Laurel,
We should make a plan for you and Eric to visit during that time. There is a lot to do during the Festival, and you would really enjoy the Chalk Walk and the daily Bluegrass Music event held downtown called the “Blue Plate Special.” Helen and I would love to have you come over the mountain and see us.
Now that you mention it, I wouldn’t be surprised if “Green Eyes” is the Afghan girl you mention. great to hear from you. Enjoy your weekend! Joe
Joe, The chalk artworks look so impressive and beautiful. What a delightful walk for you and Helen. I love the two Great Pyrenees, too. Thank you for sharing your photos.
Good morning, Natalie,
I’m glad you stopped by because you’re always sharing works of art and wall murals both in Toronto and the places you travel. Obviously chalk art is not permanent, but they can be beautiful. Once they’re gone, the slate is ready for next year’s event. Great to hear from you–have a fabulous weekend!