“Foster a Future” Chalk Art Festival Guest Artist: Barbara Lavallee

Barbara Lavallee is an award winning artist and illustrator whose colorful and whimsical water colors often depict life in Alaska and of Alaska’s children. One of her most notable works is the illustration of the popular children’s book, “Mama, Do You Love Me?”

Born in Davenport, Iowa, Barbara graduated from Wesleyan University with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts. She began her career as a professional artist in 1976 initially working with silk screen before switching to water colors.

Barbara spent 12 years in Sitka as an art instructor at Mt. Edgecombe before relocating to Girdwood where she still lives today. Much of her work is inspired by Alaska Native culture. She has graciously allowed the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services Office of Children’s Services to use her work titled, “Children of the North” in events and promotions benefitting children’s services.

Barbara will be creating an original work of chalk art during the weekend. In addition to participating in the "Foster a Future" Chalk Art Festival, she will be doing a book signing on both days of the event from 1-2 PM at Hearthside Books.