Chalk on the Walk returns Aug. 12

Chalk on the Walk started about 22 years ago when Tehachapi Valley Arts Association became concerned about teachers having to fund art supplies out of their own pockets for special projects.

TVAA decided they needed to focus on something to help keep art in the classrooms. A fun community event to bring families out on a summer morning; a late summer event that would give kids a break from the boring summer routine; a creative outlet for anyone of any age. Chalk on the Walk became the solution.

In 2016 Tehachapi Arts Foundation was established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to aid in TVAA's quest to fill classrooms with art experiences. Local businesses started to sponsor the event and since then TVAA has been able to connect with local area teachers, collect art supply wish lists and donate supplies so our students can let their imaginations explore through art.

"This event is great for our community, and our schools. It brings families and friends out to our beautiful downtown to create art together," said TVAA President Gale Caldwell. "And it's just fun to see what people will create from year to year."

If you are interested in signing up for the event, forms are on the Gallery 'N' Gifts website at http://www.galleryngifts.com, you can message them on Facebook @galleryngifts or stop by Gallery 'N' Gifts at 100 W. Tehachapi Blvd. open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Registration is $15 and each participant receives a box of chalks for drawing and an event logo drawstring backpack (up to 110 participants). Check in and drawing begins at 7:30 a.m. Please note that black backgrounds and sealants are not allowed as they permanently stain the sidewalks.

TVAA would like to thank the 2023 Chalk on the Walk Sponsors: Waste Management, Terra-Gen Operating Company LLC, Khonen's Bakery, Tehachapi Candle Co., The Loop newspaper, Linda Clough-Keller Williams Realty, American Pacific Mortgage, Interior Wood Specialties, Ginger Patz Insurance Agency, Home Depot, Discover Tehachapi Tours, Salty Hair Salon, Ryan Kerr DDS, Tehachapi Optometric Center, Mark L Mayo Woodworking, The Spirited Bead & Klew's Gallery, Moe's Barbershop, Jim & Cheryl Wilson, Old Town Roots, Coldwell Banker Peggy Horn Realtor, Country Real Estate, Stephen Lee Photography, Pearce Renewables and Carlos Donuts.