BOUNTIFUL -- The sidewalks of Bountiful will come alive next weekend when dozens of sidewalk artists converge on Bountiful for the First Annual Chalk Art Festival. The festival will raise funds for the Joy Foundation, a public art charity for youth who need community support. Scott Durrant, president of the Lamplight Gallery in Bountiful, said he expects there to be about 40 artists who will draw on designated squares along Main Street. Durrant also said organizers are hoping to have a place set up specifically designated for children and others from the community who want to draw on the sidewalks. "It's going to be a lot of fun," Durrant said. "Bountiful is just such a great community that this should be really neat."

Each sidewalk masterpiece will be sponsored by a local merchant. Visitors who wish to watch the artists in action may come earlier the day of the Lamplight Gallery reception or the two days before. The artistically decorated town walks will remain open to sidewalk browsers throughout the weekend.

During Friday's reception from 6-9 p.m at the Lamplight Gallery, refreshments will be served.

The exclusive viewing of works by the Joy Foundation Youth Participants will be in the gallery's classroom. Also, the Lamplight Gallery artists will be present during the reception to discuss their artwork.

Numerous community groups have pulled together for this cause.

They include the Bountiful Exchange Club, the Joy Foundation, Davis County Schools and students and local artists and businesses.

Ruby Chacon, the featured artist, is a native Utahn whose work is part of the Chicano Art Collection archives. While applying her colors in this city sidewalk make-over, her 13-year-old son will serenade with his guitar. Chacon will begin at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 17.

cphares@davisclipper.com