City of Albany and the Lexington Avenue Partnership to present “Drawing Up Central,” a sidewalk chalk art contest on Central Avenue.
This community-wide event, which is part of the City of Albany’s 66th Annual Tulip Fest, will feature artists from all over the region competing for cash and prizes in a sidewalk chalk art contest. Families, students, and organizations are invited to watch these talented individuals create their masterpieces right on Central Avenue’s sidewalks, and then cast a vote for their favorite in the Central’s Choice category.
The grand prize winner will take home $500, and second and third-place winners will take home prizes and gift certificates donated by area merchants.
“After a successful first year, we’re looking forward to doing this again because people enjoyed it so much,” says Anthony Capece, Executive Director for the Central Avenue Business
Improvement District in Albany. “It’s a fun event that creates good connections between
businesses and the community. This year, with support from our partners, Pioneer Bank and
Capitalize Albany Corporation, we’re able to give away $500. Every artist in the area should be signing up for this event!”
“We're so excited about this event, and its potential to give the youth we serve a positive outlet
for creativity, leadership and service to their community,” says Dorothy Cucinelli, Ph.D., Chief
Executive Officer for Equinox, Inc.
“Drawing Up Central” will be staffed by young people, from Equinox’s Youth Outreach Center,
providing youth at risk with opportunities to perform community service within their community
and support local businesses, which is one of the positive youth development objectives of the
center. This year, the contest will also host food trucks. Pies on Wheels, Crisp Cannoli, and Fitzy’s Fork in the Road will serve up eats all day for the artists and public. The contest will also have community organizations present to provide information and resources.
“Drawing Up Central” is sponsored by the City of Albany, the Albany Police Department,
Capitalize Albany Corporation, Pioneer Bank, All Over Albany, Albany Parking Authority, Historic Albany Foundation, and Honest Weight Food Coop. For more information, please visit the event website: www.centralbid.com/sidewalkart2014
