"Chalk It Up!" 2009 July 18, 2009

HENDERSONVILLE – In 1995, business owner Barbara Hughes needed an activity to occupy her three children one afternoon while she was busy with customers inside her Main Street flower and gift shop, Narnia Studios.

After suggesting the kids draw on the sidewalk outside the shop with colored chalk, she was inspired by what she saw and decided to create an annual activity for all of downtown Hendersonville to enjoy.

Chalk It Up! will celebrate its 13th incarnation Saturday, weather permitting. (Rain dates are July 25 and, if it rains on the 25th as well, August 1st.)

“What started out as a way to keep my own children engaged during the summer months on Main Street has blossomed way beyond my own expectations,” Hughes said of the event, which draws thousands of people to the “sidewalk studios” each year.

“It brings people from all over the country to Hendersonville. For several years, a family from Japan has planned their vacation to the states around Chalk It Up!”

Aspiring artists ranging from age 5 or younger to those in their 70s or older participate in the free event. Chalk It Up is limited to 150 participants, so registration is recommended. Only about 50 spaces remained by late Wednesday.

Each artist will be provided with 20 different colors of chalk. Five winning entries in five age categories — 5 years old and younger, 6-8, 9-12, 13-20 and 21 and older — will receive prizes donated by local merchants.

One entry from the professional artist category will be honored as best in show, and three entries from area charitable organizations will each receive a $50 savings bond.

While many local residents and visitors enjoy seeing Hendersonville’s sidewalks turn from gray pedestrian paths into full-color canvases, Hughes said the impact of the annual event lasts long after all the chalk dust has been swept away.

“I love it when I hear people shopping downtown throughout the year say, ‘That was where my square was last year,’” she said. “Chalk It Up! has always been a labor of love for me. I love that it also allows other people a sense of ownership along Main Street.”

Official Website: http://www.narniastudios.com