This year's Capital Chalk Art Competition will look a bit different.
In past years, this outdoor event attracted people to come and decorate a boring piece of concrete or asphalt with original creations. But with ongoing public health concerns surrounding the global pandemic, the Jefferson City event this year is going virtual.
Leann Porrello, cultural arts specialist, said the virtual option allows everyone to participate and even view the finished artwork from the comfort of their own homes.
"The chalk art festival has always been one of Capital Art's largest community events, and we still wanted the community to enjoy participating," Porrello said.
In order to achieve that, this year's competition is asking participants to decorate their own driveways or sidewalks Saturday.
To enter, visit capitalarts.org/chalk-art to fill out and submit a registration form, which must be done by midnight Saturday. Photos of the completed artwork will be submitted to the same site and also must be done by midnight Saturday.
The competition has several categories, including professional, amateur, group, high school, middle school, elementary and popular vote. Pastel chalk should be used and you can either use your own or use chalk provided by Capital Arts, which can be picked up between 10 a.m. and noon Saturday from the location at 1203 Missouri Blvd. Other guidelines include a drawing area of 3 feet by 5 feet and ensuring artwork is appropriate for viewing.
Pieces will be judged by whether it's visually attractive; the use of form, line, color, texture and composition; the originality of the piece or how well it was reproduced if not an original; and thoughtful technique and application.
Winners will be announced no later than Sept. 18 and will receive a $25 gift card to Capital Arts and a chalk art T-shirt.
Porrello said if it is raining Saturday, the event will be canceled for the day and the new date for entries will be Sept. 19.
Learn more by visiting capitalarts.org/chalk-art or checking out the event page on Facebook.