BY JEFF BRANSCOME

Sophia Street's asphalt turned into a canvas for artists Saturday.

Chalk drawings of flowers, jellyfish, dogs and sailboats brightened the pavement at the third annual Via Colori art festival in downtown Fredericksburg. The event continues today from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

"There's so much creativity," said Katie Bailey, 15, of King George County. "And everyone's friendly."

She and four other students from King George High School's art club worked on a drawing called "Welcome to Wonderland." It featured random images such as an aqueduct, moons and a smoking chimney. "It's basically what we all like, and we shoved it into one picture," said Julie Watkins, 16.

King George High School art teacher Lara Klopp, who drew flowers and a portrait nearby, told the students about Via Colori.

"It's really important that they take part in community events," she said.

The 600 and 700 blocks of Sophia Street and 100 block of Charlotte Street have been closed for the festival, which also includes food vendors and bands.

Each square drawing space is sponsored by a business or organization, and about 80 artists participated. The chalk is environmentally friendly and eventually just wears away.

Proceeds from the festival will support art education programs as well as the Community Health Center of the Rappahannock Region, which provides affordable health care to all, including underinsured and uninsured patients.

Sheena Mackenzie, development director of Central Virginia Health Services, said it's a fitting alliance because art helps with mental health.

"We have really enjoyed the partnership with people we might not otherwise have crossed paths with," she said.

Jeff Branscome: 540/374-5402
Email: jbranscome@freelancestar.com