Work has started to take down the sidewalk art on Avenue of Art.

Three-hundred murals, created by 240 artists from 20 countries, have come to adorn the streets in Burns Square Historic District.

Yet in its place is expected to be bare pavement.

The Avenue of Art, initiated by the Sarasota Chalk Festival during COVID-19, served as a creative outlet.

However, the project is now facing dismantlement due to an FDOT mandate requiring removal of pavement paintings from sidewalks and roadways.

An announcement via the Chalk Festival’s social media revealed that the surface has been ground away along a stretch of Orange Ave., removing the first 19 murals painted in 2021, which include significant depictions such as Emma Booker and Bertha Palmer, as well as students training with Sailor Circus Academy.

The project received support from the city of Sarasota and was partially funded by Sarasota County.

“All four areas within the city limits where artwork was installed on the pavement or sidewalk will be removed to comply with FDOT’s revised pavement art policy,” stated city Communications General Manager Jan Thornburg. “FDOT’s June 20, 2025, memo clearly states that non-compliance shall result in withholding state funds. The City cannot risk jeopardizing state funding.”

Denise Kowal, chair and founder of the Chalk Festival, emphasizes that 80%-90% of the artists are local residents and students, noting this project was unprecedented globally.

“Seeing each artist traumatized by the removal is disheartening,” she expressed.

Kowal mentioned that the festival staff were not notified of the removal process or if the city sought an exception for the project.

The FDOT has stated that such markings may cause “distractions or confusion that compromise roadway safety,” a claim Kowal disputes.

“Data indicates that this art enhances community safety, raises awareness at intersections, and benefits the public,” she noted.

Kowal urges community leaders to advocate for the installation, highlighting its significance to local identity.

“They must consider how important our identity is here and fight for elements that foster a beloved community,” she stated.

This year’s Chalk Festival is not taking place due to concerns over recent November weather and the need for a new schedule.

Kowal also mentioned current climate issues, including the FDOT mandate and immigration concerns, as many attendees come from abroad.

The hope remains that the festival will return in 2026.

Correction: This article has been updated to correct the title of Communications General Manager Jan Thornburg.

Key Information

• Total Murals: 300 murals created by 240 artists.
• Location: Burns Square Historic District, Sarasota.
• Reason for Dismantlement: FDOT mandate requiring removal of pavement paintings.
• Artist Involvement: 80%-90% local residents and students.
• Current Status of Chalk Festival: Not taking place this year; potential return in 2026.