Instructor: Allison Olstad, artist at Chalk in Sauk
We begin the class getting to know each other, sharing some of my work along with works and discussion of where chalk art is displayed professionally. We introduce students to working with soft chalk pastels. This instruction includes various blending techniques, using less chalk and spreading it into a large area, getting comfortable using this medium and surface, how to start a piece, and more. Students are also exposed to a variety of methods to use a photo as a reference and transfer it to a large piece on the sidewalk. We demonstrate and practice the grid method along with some other point of reference options. Students practice various techniques, choose an inspiration photo, and then get started on their own 3×4 foot masterpieces. We typically invite friends and family to come back for the last 10-15 minutes to share in a gallery walk of the students’ work. Students take home the chalk remaining in their box to continue practicing at home!

*This class made possible by a grant from the Sauk Centre Area Community Foundation.