By Mike McCombs
The Island News
Mother Nature played nice, the rain held off until after the final awards were announced by Aunt Pearlie Sue, and the second annual Chalk It Up! Festival in Beaufort was an amazing success.
The sidewalk art, fundraising event for the Freedman Arts District saw more than twice the number of artists participate this year over last year’s inaugural event. Forty-four artists from all over the country, including one from the Dominican Republic, chalked it up in the parking lot behind downtown Beaufort’s Tabby Place.
“Chalk it Up! Beaufort is more than an explosion of color and creativity — it’s a vital fundraiser that fuels the Freedman Arts District’s mission to inspire, unite and empower through the arts, ensuring that our rich cultural heritage continues to thrive for generations to come,” Freedman Arts District’s Executive Director Cherimie Weatherford said. “We have received incredible feedback from local businesses, hotels and restaurants all commenting on the positive impacts to foot traffic, sales and occupancy rates. In our planning we took great care to consider our downtown businesses, and it paid off.”
The festival opened Friday night with a ceremony that offered artists and residents an opportunity to meet, learn about area art organizations, and enjoy the performance of Aunt Perlie Sue and the Gullah Kinfolk while enjoying sampling Frogmore Stew.
The art began Saturday morning.
“Festival goers were mesmerized by the creative process, skill and stories told by the artists themselves,” Weatherford said. “Our local musicians kept everyone singing, foot tapping and wanting to stay. It was a joyful crowd, the energy felt by all was electric.”
Votes were tallied a little early as rain threatened Sunday’s awards presentations, but everything worked out.
“The crowd was diverse, enthusiastic and inquisitive about how to become involved in the Freedman Arts District,” Weatherford said. “Artists raved about our beautiful town — many already making plans to return for family vacations. Thanks to the generosity and support of our local partners, we exceeded all expectations.”
Winners were all chosen by People’s Choice – voting by attendees of the festival.
In the high school category, Beaufort High School won first place, and Bridges Preparatory won second place.
In the middle school category, Riverview Charter won first place, Robert Smalls Leadership Academy won second, and third place was a tie between Sea Islands Heritage Academy and Lady’s Island Middle School.
The adult category winners were Nicole Von Kuhl from Alexandria, Va., who won first place; Ke’Chanbria Ball from Americus, Ga., who won second place; and Brian Morris from Lutz, Fla., who won third place.
Oyster Cay Collection sponsored the awards that were presented to adult chalk artists and school art classes.
“We have already set the date for next year, with even more exciting components added,” Weatherford said. “It will continue to be a three-day event filled with celebrating our rich cultural heritage and the power of art to transcend boundaries and strengthen community ties. We have already begun the planning process for Chalk it Up Beaufort 2026, March 20-22.”
Mike McCombs is the Editor of The Island News and can be reached at TheIslandNews@gmail.com.
