Chalk Art Festival this weekend at The Gateway

Spray-canned graffiti gets all the press and buzz when it comes to "public art." Less celebrated are the public art practitioners who prefer chalk to paint and the subtle horizons of flat spaces as opposed to vertical walls — especiall

The Utah Foster Care Foundation gives them these artists their due, and more,this Father's Day Weekend, June 15 and 16 at The Gateway. That's when teams of up to four and fewer will gather to compete for the foundation's 10th Annual Chalk Art Festival.

Taking inspiration from a tradition that first started in Italy, wound its way toward trend-setting California and beyond, the competition is a casual way to take in this coming Father's Day. But with an eye for art, and all for a great cause. This year's theme is "Foster Parents are Super Heroes."

The event has traditionally drawn in more than 20,000 observers with about 125 artists participating. It all begins 2 p.m. Friday, June 15, with artists placing the finishing touches on their creations 4 p.m. Saturday. Prizes will be announced 6 p.m. for three categories including "People's Choice," "Best in Show," and "Super Heroes." Spectators may even receive special instructions to vote for favorites via their cell phones.

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Utah Foster Care Foundation's Chalk Art Festival

When • June 15, 2 p.m.-7 p.m.; June 16, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Where • Kids Corner at south end of Rio Grande Street at The Gateway, 18 N. Rio Grande St., Salt Lake City

Info • Free to the public. Artists must register. Call 801-747-0512 or visit www.chalkartfestival.org or utahfostercare.org for more information.