Chalkfest, now in its fifth year, was a huge ‘draw’ for those out for some creative fun in the sun, a week Saturday.
Marcie Woods winning entry. Photo: National Gallery |
Organised by the National Gallery and the Cayman National Cultural Foundation’s Cayfest, the competition, titled ‘Multicultural Cayman,’ was hosted by Camana Bay in its north car park.
Despite a brief rain shower, the free event succeeded in bringing the community together in an enjoyable and artistic afternoon, which attracted over 330 participants.
From 3pm to 6m, budding artists and seasoned professionals sat down or sprawled out on the blacktop and sidewalks to chalk their imaginative creations. All intent on impressing the judges, for many of the youngest entrants cartoon characters, marine life and rainbows were popular subjects.
‘I was very surprised because I was up against some stiff competition,’ said Freddie Diaz-Christian, who placed first in the adult category.
When asked, the 20-year-old policeman was undecided as to which Cayman Airways destinations to jet off to.
Artist Avril Ward, winner of the adult professional category, said she will probably use her CAL ticket to visit art galleries in New York. Her quirky 3D entry was of a female emerging from a manhole cover.
‘I did a similar painting many years back in South Africa and had always thought it would make a great chalk drawing on the road where you would literally find a manhole.’
For her, the event made a change from studio work. ‘I thoroughly enjoyed my Saturday afternoon, chatting to the public and working quickly as the three hour deadline sped by’.
Participants were supplied with free water and shade from open-sided tents, Camana Bay also put on fans and children’s music.
This year’s Chalkfest introduced the Cayman public to the work of two noted street artists: Michael Kirby and Sean James from Baltimore, USA. Their large-scale chalk drawing, aptly titled Multicultural Cayman, was life-like and became a major attraction at event.
‘We were almost overwhelmed with the response this year,’ said National Gallery Director and Chalkfest co-ordinator Nancy Barnard.
‘We improved this year’s event from previous years by having the professional artists down just for this event and by having more prizes available’.
The judges included Mrs. Barnard, the gallery’s Education Officer Kushana Gentles, Outreach Officer Kiran Denis and two overseas artists.
Related Videos
