Melrose Nonprofit Plans To Expand Chalk Walk Program In 2022

MELROSE, MA — A popular Chalk Walk art initiative will return to Melrose this fall for a second year of art at Ell Pond and downtown Melrose, organizers announced this week.

Organizers have set their 2022 event for Saturday, Oct. 1, planning to expand programming with community and artist-made works both near Ell Pond and along Melrose’s Main Street Corridor.

Follow Your Art Community Studios is a nonprofit based in Melrose. It operates the Chalk Walk program as an annual public art fundraiser.

Follow Your Art launched the program last year, drawing upwards of 200 participants to make or sponsor chalk paintings on the 700 Main Street pathway near Ell Pond. Art also took shape along the walkway in front of Melrose City Hall.

Organizers are stepping things up a year later, now offering a premium business sponsor opportunity to local businesses interested in supporting artists to create original chalk art on sidewalks outside their storefronts.

“By expanding Chalk Walk in Melrose, we give more exposure to the amazing artists and talented hobbyists in town,” Follow Your Art Executive Director Kris Rodolico said in a recent press release. “We also bring greater awareness to FYA’s mission to encourage creative endeavors that build community, give people tools and space to explore their creative sides, and bring joy into people’s lives.”

Businesses and individuals interested in a sponsorship through the Chalk Walk program should contact the Follow Your Art administrative office by phone at 781-665-4140 or by email at info@fyamelrose.org.

Businesses will be able to consult with artists set to work outside their storefronts through these sponsorship arrangements. Follow Your Art will also host a pre-event reception at its gallery and studio on 647 Main Street.

Individuals, families and community groups interested in reserving a spot for their own work can do so by clicking here.

The rain date for the upcoming Chalk Walk day is Sunday, Oct. 2.