AVENIDA DE COLORES, INC.
SARASOTA, FLORIDA

Founded in 2010 by Denise Kowal, AVENIDA DE COLORES, INC., rooted in Sarasota, Florida, is a non-profit focused on weaving together community, culture, and commerce through the vibrant medium of street art. The journey began with an inaugural Chalk Festival back in November 2007, which inspired the birth of what would become the First International Street Painting Festival in the U.S.-now affectionately known as the Sarasota Chalk Festival. Every year, this event attracts around 250 artists and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors from across the globe to witness a dynamic showcase of contemporary street art. As an official registered non-profit recognized under Florida law with status DOMNP since August 13, 2010, AVENIDA DE COLORES is based at 540 S. Orange Ave in Sarasota, FL. They can be reached at (941) 488-8877 and provide more information on their website, avenidadecolores.com. The organization has been pivotal in transforming downtown Sarasota into an expansive canvas where artists like Kurt Wenner-an innovator of anamorphic pavement art-demonstrate awe-inspiring works. This transformation is further celebrated through events such as 'Eat, Drink and Be Merry,' which features creations of some of the largest 3D pavement artworks globally, complemented by lectures, workshops, and cultural exhibitions. Every year AVENIDA DE COLORES shifts its thematic focus to shine a light on significant global issues. Themes have ranged from highlighting extinct or endangered species to promoting more culturally vibrant celebrations. Notably, their last event was recorded in November 2014, with the most recent annual report filed by February 7, 2024. Denise C Kowal holds the position of President of this creative and impactful organization, with Carole Henry stepping in as Director and Douglas J Henry as Secretary. Together, they lead AVENIDA DE COLORES in its mission to inspire and connect communities through the transformative power of street art.