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Writer's pictureSteven Hansen

Sidewalk Sorcery: The Chalk Magic of David Zinn


If you happen to be strolling down the street one morning in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and notice a weird green gremlin staring up at you suspiciously through a trapdoor in the sidewalk, you’d probably take a flying leap backwards! It’s a startling sight and you might think you had one too many wine spritzers the night before.


Fear not! You’ve just encountered one of the delightful creations of artist David Zinn, who has been transforming urban landscapes with temporary street art since 2001.



David Zinn's art is a playful blend of imagination and improvisation. Using nothing more than chalk and charcoal, he brings to life quirky characters like Sluggo, a bright green monster, and Philomena, a flying pig. His creations often interact with the environment, cleverly incorporating sidewalk cracks, bricks, manhole covers, and even flower petals.


What makes Zinn's art truly special is its ephemeral nature. His drawings are designed to be temporary, washed away by rain or foot traffic, which he sees as part of the beauty of his work. "Embracing the joys of temporary art has taught me to enjoy the present," Zinn says. "It's about the journey, not the destination."






You don’t have to travel to Michigan to enjoy Zinn's fantastical creations. He has gained a massive following on Instagram and Facebook where he displays his artistry for all to enjoy. His work has been featured by Instagram and the BBC, and he even published a coffee table book titled "Chance Encounters: Temporary Street Art by David Zinn."



But perhaps the most heartwarming aspect of Zinn's art is its ability to connect with people. "Public art is an act of love to strangers," he says. "It's a way of connecting to people without saying a word."







Photos and video: zinnart.com



:-) Please like and share this post with anybody who needs cheering up today!

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