The art will hit the asphalt in Sam Houston Park when more than 200 artists create colossal masterworks on the ground for Via Colori¨ Houston 2009. Returning to the street-painting festival is artist Michael Ann-Belin. "I'm looking forward to creating my art," she says, "and also seeing the work of other artists and the people who come out to enjoy it." The roots of street painting reportedly go back to the 16th century, when disabled Italian veterans painted on the courtyard pavements of cathedrals. While there aren't any higher powers involved at Via Colori¨, there is a higher purpose: Proceeds benefit the Center for Hearing and Speech and its outreach programs for children. The festival will also feature food, children's activities and two stages of live music with local bands including Beetle, Wild Moccasins, Flying Fish Sailors and Spain Colored Orange. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Sam Houston Park, 1000 Bagby. For information, call 713-523-3633 or visit www.houstonviacolori.com. Free.
Sat., Nov. 21; Sun., Nov. 22, 2009