St Augustine – 2nd Annual Paseo Pastel

Paseo Pastel refers to the Spanish custom of a casual promenade or walk. This weekend St Augustine visitors and locals had the chance to stroll through the magnificent plaza and view art work on the sidewalks in between the City Parking Garage and the Visitor Center. I have never seen this part of town so alive with people admiring the artists chalking, music playing, kids young and old excited to watch the artists developing their street paintings throughout the day!
This 500 year old art form was started in the 16th Century and it was wonderful to see people of all ages enjoying watching and even participating.
Congratulations and thank’s to St. Augustine Regional Council, (StAR Council) for bringing the arts literally, to the streets of St. Augustine. Please visit the website to see photos of the event –
http://www.staugustinechalkwalk.com/
As a professional artist living and working in St Augustine I applaud the organizers, volunteers and sponsors of this event. I was delighted to be one of three judges asked to award prizes at the event. Diane Bradley, President of the St Augustine Art Association and Vaughn Cochran, Artist and founder Blackfly helped judge and we all agreed it was a difficult task and the talent and creativity was outstanding. It was a pleasure to see our city represented and brought to life by the many varied artistic styles and subjects created.
Featured artist Carolyn Shultz has the prestigious designation “Maestro Madonnari” (Master Street Painter) she was surrounded a talented group of artists who had all applied to take part and support the event. Congratulations to everyone involved.
– Claire Kendrick