Fun Fact Friday – Chalk Street Art

October 12, 2012 11:24 am CT

“Keep the drawing on the paper,” is the admonishment I usually have to give my kids when the arts and crafts bin comes out. I’m sure my parents used to have to say the same to me and we’ve all probably heard that same chastisement, but for a few talented artists whose fascination with their craft came at an early age, their canvas can be many things – including the pavement beneath their feet.

Chalk street art is not a new phenomenon in the United States, but it is rarely heralded. A surprising fact as it can be such a major endeavor. The largest piece of chalk street art was completed in California with the final drawing nearly 90,000 square feet in size!

Closer to home, Chicago is about to get in on the action as Cadillac sponsors renowned chalk muralist, Tracy Lee Stum, to craft a 3D chalk mural at Pioneer Plaza based on the ATS vs the World commercials, coinciding with the launch of the new Cadillac ATS.

For this 3D chalk mural – also known as anamorphic art- Tracy Lee Stum will bring to life the ‘‘winds of Patagonia” spot from the ATS vs the World series of commercials. As an added facet to this installation, once the mural is complete and by using augmented reality along with a smartphone or tablet computer, Cadillac will show the ATS actually drive and challenge roads in the chalk mural, in scenes reminiscent of the ATS vs the world experience.

If you’re in the area, come on down to witness a talented artist in action and see the intersection of art, design, science and technology. The work begins on Monday, October 15 and the piece will be completed and on display Friday, October 19 and Saturday, October 20 at Pioneer Plaza. The event is free for all with public viewings available at any time; but please, watch out for ‘traffic’!