Sidewalk chalk

For the confectionery product, see Sidewalk chalk (bubble gum).

Common colors used in sidewalk chalk

A sidewalk chalk artist at work

Sidewalk chalk are typically large colored (and sometimes white or cream) sticks of calcium sulfate mostly used for drawing on pavement or cement sidewalk. It is sometimes used to draw a four square court or a hopscotch board. Blackboard chalk (see Chalkboard) is typically shorter and white.

Use

Sidewalk chalk is used at some universities to advertise for events, especially where there is much concrete. Prohibitions are set for where students can chalk, usually limiting it to areas that will be washed away with rain, or areas which are set to be cleaned of chalk markings.

Art

Artists such as Kurt Wenner, Ellis Gallagher and Julian Beever have created intricate and realistic street paintings using the chalk and pastels. There are many competitions for chalk artists, including the Pavement Art Competition in the Bold Street Festival in Liverpool in 2010.

External links

• Busker Alley - videos of sidewalk artists with chalks and paints
• Gallery of sidewalk chalk art drawn by children