Via Colori in Downtown Houston

Artists of all ages representing local schools and businesses were in full and colorful work mode this weekend on the streets running behind the central branch of the Houston Public Library and next to Sam Houston Park. The streets were closed off so the artists could spread out and apply chalk to the asphalt.

By mid-day Saturday, the weather was perfect for the Via Colori festival benefiting the Center for Hearing and Speech. The featured artist was Kelly Faltermayer, graduate of Houston's High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, who has been here before. This year he focused on drawing an incredibly colorful mandrill -- which most onlookers misidentified as a baboon. Either way, the day was a great showcase for artists throughout the area.  Click here for a slideshow.

-- Margaret Downing