Every year at the end of May in front of the Old Mission, a three-day festival celebrates the art of street painting with chalk. This fascinating event called “I Madonnari,” based on an ancient Italian tradition, has been held since 1986 for the benefit of the Children’s Creative Project, a non-profit enrichment initiative for the local schools.
It is most inspiring to discover the talents of so many local artists. The refreshingly diverse range of styles and eclectic subjects play out in very large works of art on the pavement. I Madonnari serves as a break from everyday life, a reminder to play and take in the beauty and culture of the community.