CARROT RIVER — Carrot River youth are invited to bring their own chalks and be creative, leaving their own designs on the sidewalk at the town square.
The initiative was started by local artist Terri Freeborn, who told the town administrator she wanted to brighten up the square.
With permission from the town, she took out her acrylic paint and left a message.
“We’re really excited,” said Kevin Trew, Carrot River’s administrator. “She painted a character on our square sidewalk, inviting youngsters to participate and put some chalk art of their own on the square,”
Freeborn’s piece is made out of acrylic paint, and shows the character holding up a banner which reads, “Add your piece to the sidewalk chalk world.”
While the acrylic paint isn’t expected to last until next year, is planned to last through several chalk creations around it this season.
Trew said the town is hoping this will bring more families out to the square while observing safe distances.
“This little project by Terri Freeborn is just another exciting little part we see as a great example of community pride, and looking out for our neighbours, and trying to work on mental health,” he said.
“I know myself, if I see someone who has been where I’m going and has given me a message it makes me smile. I can only speak for myself, but it certainly helps with my mental health.”
Trew said the town found the timing for Freeborn’s art project was perfect, as the community development department was looking for creative ways for the residents to stay occupied during the pandemic.
“So there will be some announcements about what the community development department has been working on. Some fun distractions, some different fun events that follow all the rules and regulations put forward by the chief health officer.”
The town asks that parents make sure their child only draws on the cement and not on the pavers or wood surfaces on the stage or shed.
