Scene of the world’s largest pavement art in 2008 from Drawing on Earth project. Courtesy/Red River
Scene with artist Mark Lewis Wagner from Drawing on Earth project. Courtesy/Red River
Scene with artist Mark Lewis Wagner from Drawing on Earth project. Courtesy/Red River
Town of Red River News:
The Town of Red River has announced its partnership with the Drawing on Earth organization for its upcoming Mayfest in the Mountains event. This inaugural event promises to bring a unique and creative experience to the community, thanks to the innovative vision of professional artist Mark Lewis Wagner.
Wagner’s journey began in 2003 when he embarked on a mission to provide children with a creative outlet despite the lack of art education in local elementary schools. Wagner’s passion for art and commitment to fostering creativity led him to initiate annual chalk drawing sessions at his kids’ school, inspiring young minds to explore their artistic talents.
It was during one of these sessions that Wagner had a groundbreaking idea – to create the world’s largest chalk drawing visible from space. Utilizing Google Earth, Wagner zoomed in on the playground where the children had just completed their chalk masterpiece, sparking the concept of using art to raise awareness and funds for art education in schools.
In 2008, Wagner’s vision became a reality as the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest chalk drawing was set with the help of 6,000 individuals, including more than 4,000 elementary school kids. Covering an impressive 90,000 sq. ft., equivalent to almost 2 football fields, the artwork was captured by a satellite from a remarkable height of 423 miles.
Transforming from its humble beginnings as the Kids Chalk Art Project to its current iteration as Drawing on Earth, the nonprofit organization has secured 501(c)3 tax-exempt status and continues to inspire and engage young artists worldwide.
“I am thrilled to be working with the talented kids in the Town of Red River Saturday, May 25,” Wagner said. “This partnership exemplifies our shared commitment to nurturing creativity and empowering the next generation of artists.”
“The Town of Red River is dedicated to supporting art education and cultivating a vibrant community through initiatives like the Mayfest in the Mountains event.”
This program was made possible by the sponsorship of the New Mexico Tourism Department.
For more information about Drawing on Earth, visit https:////www.drawingonearth.org.
For more information about the Town of Red River, visit https:////www.redriver.org.
Scene from Drawing on Earth project. Courtesy/Red River
Scene from Drawing on Earth project. Courtesy/Red River
Scene from Drawing on Earth project. Courtesy/Red River