San Bernardino, CA – Over 100 community members, artists, and transit-riders gathered at the San Bernardino Transit Center on Saturday, October 20, 2018 for a visual experience that took spectators “around the world” at the 3^rd Annual SBTC Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest.

Above Photo – 1st Place: Isaac R., winner of the grand prize of $300. A two-time contest winner (Isaac previously took home the top prize at the inaugural event in 2016), Isaac’s impressive masterpiece featured four skillfully contoured and blended profiles of cultural icons around the world including: A Renaissance sculpture, a Japanese samurai, the Day of the Dead “Calavera Catrina”, and Buddha.

Twenty-three artists showcased their talents at the transit center this year, adorning the concrete sidewalks with chalk works of art reflecting the theme – A Trip Around the World.

“Since last year’s contest, the San Bernardino Transit Center has welcomed Metrolink and a Riverside Transit Agency connection to improve connectivity for San Bernardino area residents,” said Omnitrans Marketing Manager Nicole Ramos. “These partnerships with neighboring transit agencies open up the possibilities for travel destinations and experiences beyond the San Bernardino County region, and we wanted to integrate the transit center’s growth as a transportation hub in this year’s celebration.”

Contestants competed individually, and in teams of two or three, while kids enjoyed a free painting class by The Art Barn of Cherry Valley. HOT 103.9’s DJ Jeff Pope kept the crowd entertained with an interactive prize wheel, unique raffles, and the latest hits, of course!

After two hours of arduous handwork, three judges from the local arts community – including the City of San Bernardino Fine Arts Commission and San Bernardino County Arts Connection – came together to deliberate and choose the top three winners, which was no easy task.