WEEKEND BEST BET: Sarasota Chalk Festival

The 2011 Sarasota Chalk Festival is a week-long cultural event when 250 artists from around the globe take to their hands and knees to recreate old master paintings and original works of art right before your eyes. 

The festival takes place through Nov. 7, on South Pineapple Avenue, and celebrates the performance art of street painting.

This 2011 theme, "Pavement Art Through the Ages," traces the evolution of the this art form from its ancient roots to today's contemporary movements. For those who want detailed knowledge of the artists and the history they are recreating, docents will be giving walking tours of the festival.

The festival features a performance of  "Madama Butterfly." Baltimore artist Michael Kirby and the Sarasota Opera have collaborated with the Sarasota Chalk Festival to create an outdoor set. Seating is limited. The free performance takes place at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6.

At 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4, all artists participating in the honoring of the 24-hour Grazie di Curtatone Madonnari Competition will start painting and paint for 24 hours. Artists will finish their works by 6 p.m. Sunday.

Completed works of art can be viewed Monday, Nov. 7. South Pineapple will remain closed through the day.

For information, visit www.chalkfestival.com.