The Fort Wayne Museum of Art Chalk Walk has been a trademark event held on Main Street in downtown Fort Wayne since 2000. The event is based on an Italian tradition of street painting that dates to the 16th century, known as i madonnari (street painters). Using pastels, artists of varying levels of experience may choose to reproduce existing artworks or create their own in their designated square. The event typically draws 40,000 people to see the spectacle unfold.
2025 Award Categories
Best Use of a Street/Sidewalk Blemish
Imperfections in the pavement are a part of Chalk Walk! How will you deal with the imperfections of your square in a creative way?
Trompe l’oeil
French for “fool the eye”, trompe l’oeil drawings utilize 3D drawing techniques that fool the viewer by making the drawing seem like it’s a part of real life.
Favorite Art Genre (Pop, Surrealism, Impressionism, Renaissance, Cubism, etc.)
Main Street Motors
Turn the street into the showroom of your favorite car! Whether classic, exotic, or downright dependable, show us how you like (or would like) to get around on 4 wheels.
25 for 2025
It’s the year 2025, and we’re celebrating 25 years of Chalk Walk. Chalk 25 of anything for this category!
Dino Walk
What if dinosaurs still walked the earth, or at least Main Street? Show us any dinosaur scene, whether a pre-historic natural scene or a contemporary vision of dinosaurs among us today.
Fantasy Fiction
Break out your favorite character from any fantasy story—whether heroes, villians, or trusty sidekicks of great stories such as Star Wars, Labyrinth, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, or lesser-known characters from your favorite fantasy tale.
People’s Choice
The public votes for this one on Sunday!
Best Square by an Artist Under 12
Are you a young chalker? Compete in this category for a chance to win $50!
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Fine Arts events in Fort Wayne.
