Street painting for Clemson Live – O.A.R. Concert

Just had a brief but enjoyable stay in beautiful Clemson, South Carolina, where I was creating an anamorphic 3D street painting for Clemson Live, a student run organization at Clemson University, responsible for campus events and activities. This past weekend’s main attraction was the O.A.R. concert at Little John Auditorium on the Clemson campus.

Clemson Live coordinator Rachel Kaskin invited me to the event to create a street painting of the band O.A.R. as part of the ‘Live on the Lawn’ festivities. I decided to create a portrait of the band in 3D, along with the orange Clemson ‘Tiger Paw’ as part of the band’s ‘Shattered’ Tour 2009. I had 3 days to complete the piece as well as give two informal street painting workshops to interested students, which was a key factor in my decision to participate. As many may know, I am an advocate of street painting awareness, embracing any opportunity that I get to educate and inform the public about this amazing art form.

While many students showed interest in the what, how, and why of what I was doing, one particular student showed up, armed with some fairly good knowledge of street painting and itching to get into the action.  Kaitlin Iulo proved to be a smart, talented young artist with a thirst for learning and an enthusiasm for getting a little dirty with some chalk! After discussing the work and inviting her to join me in working hands on, she grasped the basics very quickly and is now exploring the notion of becoming a full fledged street painter! I hope to see her out on the pavement in another city down the road.

Along side my painting, Clemson Live provided other hands on arts and crafts entertainment including face painters (go Tigers!) from NYC, games, pie throwing a la Three Stooges and amusement rides. A mini-fair to prep the crowd for the concert later that night. Immersed in a sea of orange and purple, everyone enjoyed the event and the response to my painting was overwhelming, which was just icing on the cake for me.

I did go to the O.A.R. show and had a great time. In return, the band were able to view the painting and really loved it. Thanks guys – glad you approved!

Finally, I’d like to thank the entire Clemson Live team and especially Rachel, Charene and Jordan for making my stay so lovely. And Rachel, thanks for assisting in my Waffle House initiation. All the way………!