Redlands Festival of Arts to Feature 'I Madonnari' Youth Chalk Art Contest; Gainsborough’s ‘Blue Boy’ Reimagined
Courtesy photo
Redlands Artwalk returns the weekend of May 23-24.
The Redlands Festival of Arts returns to Historic Smiley Park on Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This year’s celebration of local culture will feature a traditional "I Madonnari" chalk painting competition, inviting local students to transform city sidewalks into temporary galleries.
The "I Madonnari" tradition dates back to 16th-century Italy, where itinerant artists traveled between towns creating religious sidewalk art. The Redlands competition will take place south of West Vine Street on the Fourth Street sidewalks, adjacent to the Lincoln Memorial Shrine and A.K. Smiley Public Library.
Student Chalk Competition
The contest is open to middle and high school students, with prizes provided by the Margaret Clark Art Education Enrichment Fund (MCAEEF). Awards include $100 for first place, $50 for second, and $25 for third. While older artists are welcome to participate, only students are eligible for the formal competition.
This year’s creative theme challenges artists to reinterpret Thomas Gainsborough’s famous painting, The Blue Boy. Students will begin with a gridded outline but are encouraged to modify the work with imaginative details—placing the figure in modern settings, different countries, or transforming the character entirely.
The entry deadline is Monday, May 18, or until space is filled. Applications and concept sketches must be pre-approved to avoid duplicates. Interested students should contact Tracy Massimiano at tmassimiano@yahoo.com or via text at 909-522-0884.
Festival Highlights
Held in conjunction with the Redlands Art Association’s Art in the Park, the festival features juried fine art from professional exhibitors. A total of $6,000 in professional awards and youth art grants will be presented during a private Saturday evening dinner.
Exhibitor and Safety Information
To ensure public safety, all artist setup must be completed on Friday, May 22. Vehicle access to the park is prohibited on Saturday and Sunday due to City of Redlands street closures. All participating artists must possess valid California and City of Redlands seller’s permits and a temporary business license.
Artist hospitality, including breakfast and a Saturday lasagna dinner, will be hosted in the Beer & Wine Garden. Security will be provided on-site Friday and Saturday nights.
For more information on festival regulations or to apply for a business license, visit https://www.redlands.gov/business-licenses/.