AC’s annual sidewalk art contest encourages folks to Chalk It Up
Cash prizes will be up for grabs once again at Chalk It Up, the summertime sidewalk art contest at Amarillo College that has attracted crazy-good creations every year since its inception in 2017.
Online registration is now open for the popular annual event, which takes place Saturday, July 27 on AC’s Washington Street Campus.
Collaboratively sponsored by AC and Panhandle PBS, the contest is free to enter and the artists – they can register as individuals or teams of up to four – will create their works on 8-foot squares at the Oeschger Family Mall.
The mall is located between the Ware Student Commons and the College Union Building – directly north of the pedestrian bridge that spans 24th Avenue.
The field is limited to the first 40 individuals or teams to enter. The competition is from 8 a.m. to noon, followed by judging and a ceremony to announce the winners.
A panel of judges representing the local art community, with a bit of help from the spectators, is charged with determining the winners and awarding cash prizes –$500 for first place, $250 for second, $100 for third, and $50 for Fan Favorite.
Plenty of cold water will be provided for the participating artists, and some food items will be available for purchase by anyone attending the event.
In addition to voting for their favorite works of art (Fan Favorite), observers at Chalk It Up also are invited to create drawings with their kids in the ‘amateur’s area’ – chalk will be made available, and everyone is welcome to give it a try.
“The community has thoroughly embraced Chalk It Up,” said Kevin Ball, AC’s vice president of communication and marketing, and CEO for Panhandle PBS. “Just watching the masterpieces take shape is a true celebration of the creative spirit that everyone can’t help but appreciate.
“This annual event is a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy excellent outdoor art on our campus, and to revel in the beauty of the College, which is especially striking in July,” he said.