Chalked & Amazed!

- What Happened to the Podcast?

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Sun, 07 Jul 2013 13:54:00 +0000

Unfortunately, the podcast has suffered a grievous lack of attention for quite a while—in fact, no new interviews have been released since 2009. The reasons are many and complicated, but the main issue had to do with the loss of podcasting equipment. There were several pieces of expensive, specialized equipment that I used to record live telephone interviews to my laptop hard drive. But the equipment was on temporary loan and was unexpectedly reclaimed by its owner.

About the same time, a complete relocation to another state along with a career change created a scarcity of free time to even think about how to reboot the podcast. So, between these unavoidable situations, the podcast had the cider squeezed from its adams apple. Oh, did I mention launching Chalk Illustrated, a free quarterly magazine for chalk artists?

A Promising New Hope?
Then I discovered that my friend and fellow chalker Dr. Rick Honea (see episode #6) had picked up the baton and was producing a podcast called Chalk Art Radio using a free service called Blog Talk Radio. So far, Rick has posted two, half-hour interviews, and you may listen to them now by clicking on these names: Gloria Kohlmann, and Kerry Kistler.

Rick may produce more shows later, or I might give the service a try some day (with his blessing), but there are limitations. First, there is a 30 minute constraint per show—longer interviews require a fee. Second, there is no option for editing shows. They are essentially done on the fly, in a single "take." And, because I sometimes stumble around like Porky Pig during interviews, I prefer to edit what gets released. Maybe YOU would be interested in tackling an interview podcast as a ministry to chalkers. Pray about it, and if you would like to collaborate in some way, e-mail me.

In the meantime, jump over to ChalkIllustrated.com and begin enjoying the quarterly magazine published exclusively for performing chalk artists.

- The Chalk Loft

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 23:53:00 +0000

Hi Gang,
A new year...a new project!

If you are a chalk artist, chalk talker (or just think it sounds like fun), there is a new place to hang out, relax and mix with others of like mind. There is no other place quite like this anywhere on the web. Of course, the Fellowship of Christian Magicians does have a forum which includes quite a small area for chalk artists. But, you must be a member of the FCM to access their forums - which locks out most chalk artists.

At The Chalk Loft, you don't need to have membership in an organization or pay dues to access the site - all are freely welcomed. It doesn't matter if you are a beginner or grizzled old pro, everyone has something to offer whether it's a question, answer, idea, opinion, story or simply a philosophical musing about the art we love. Currently, there are 22 topics under 5 categories.

The Chalk Loft exists to help build and strengthen you and our craft. I believe, with your participation, The Chalk Loft could become the main, searchable data-base for all things chalk. So, if you do chalk (or know someone who does), don't be timid about stopping by the Loft often to share your chalk bits whenever the mood strikes - we're open 24/7.

The link for The Chalk Loft is http://thechalkloft.heavenforum.com/
Or, click HERE to enter the site.

Warmest regards,
Kerry

- Merry Christmas & Year End Wrap Up

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 05:10:00 +0000

I did not want this Christmas day to pass without posting a few gifts for you to enjoy. As you know, Chalked & Amazed has a companion site called Golden Chalk Classics. This FREE archive collection is an ongoing project documenting the rich history and literature of chalk talk. Every PDF file has been indexed with OCR software which means you can throw dozens of book files in a folder and search the ENTIRE contents of the folder at the same time using Abode Reader. So, if you want to find ideas for a special theme like Christmas, or a Bible character like Noah, it will be a snap.

The Christmas artwork above (by E. J. Pace) can be found in one of the following books which I just posted for free downoad, Drawing Men to Christ by Phil Saint. Phil's daughter, Martha Saint-Berberian has graciously granted permission to make this vintage book available for a new generation of chalk artists.

Enjoy these classic titles and may your New Year be filled with peace, joy...and chalk dust.

1. DRAWING MEN TO CHRIST by Phil Saint, 1943, 64pp.

2. THROUGH THE EYE TO THE HEART by Rev. Wilbur Fisk Crafts, 1873, 251pp. (two different editions are posted for download)

3. PICTURED TRUTH by Rev. Robert Fletcher Young Pierce, 1895, 208pp.

- Episode 008: Dr. Robert L. Smith

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 17:30:00 +0000

Dr. Robert L. Smith has a very hefty chalk art pedigree. He has been chalking for over 55 years and just celebrated his 25th year of teaching Communicative Chalk-Talk at Howard Payne University. Dr. Smith has authored two books on the subject and also produced a TV show from 1955-1965 called The Art of Living which featured chalk talks.

In addition to teaching, Dr. Smith has worked as a commercial artist and served in pastoral ministries, missions and the US Air Force.

Listen to a streaming version here. Running time: 66:40

Right-click HERE to download the mp3 (audio) file.

In 2009 Howard Payne University honored Dr. Smith for his 25 years of teaching. Read the article HERE.

Check out Dr. Smith's two chalk art books and order them HERE . Two pictures from his book Ideas For Successful Chalk Talking are shown below.

"Dr. Robert L. Smith, distinguished professor of preaching and church administration, gives one of his "chalk-talks" to students during chapel."

(text and photo from the 1986 Lasso - yearbook of Howard Payne University, p. 54)

- Announcing Golden Chalk Classics!

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 19:37:00 +0000

Chalked and Amazed now has a companion site called Golden Chalk Classics. This FREE archive collection is an ongoing project documenting the rich history and literature of chalk talk. The name "Golden Chalk Classics" reflects the fact that many of the books were first published well over 50 years ago - some closer to a century.

Many of these books are in the public domain and, currently, there are ten titles posted for FREE download - dozens more will be added as they are scanned. Whenever a new title is posted for download, an alert will be made here on Chalked and Amazed.

Here is a list of what is available for FREE download NOW at Golden Chalk Classics:

1. THE BLACKBOARD IN SUNDAY SCHOOL by Henry Turner Bailey, 1899, 131pp.

2. CHALK TALK and CRAYON PRESENTATION by Charles Bartholomew, 1922, 159pp.

3. BIBLE SYMBOLS (aka THE BIBLE IN PICTURES) by Frank Beard, 1904, 182pp.

4. BENGOUGH'S CHALK-TALKS by J. W. Bengough, 1922, 162pp.

5. CHALK TALK MADE EASY by William Allen Bixler, 1932, 129pp.

6. BJORKLAND'S PEPPY PICTURE STUNTS FOR THE CHALK TALKER by Harry C. Bjorklund, 19??, 28pp.

7. HAPPY HOURS FOR BOYS AND GIRLS by Daniel Elwood Lewis, 1909, 128pp.

8. PENCIL POINTS FOR PREACHER AND TEACHER by Rev. Robert Fletcher Young Pierce, 1905, 210pp. (flyleaf shown)

9. BLACKBOARD DRAWING by Frederick Whitney, 1902, 32pp. (flyleaf shown)

10. BLACKBOARD SKETCHING by Frederick Whitney, 1906, 63pp.

Also note, chalk art books which are still in print and available for sale are listed in the section called Current Chalk Classics (along with vendor links).

Links to Golden Chalk Classics are at the top of this page or enter HERE.

- Episode 007: Elva Hurst

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 15:02:00 +0000

Elva Hurst was raised among the "plain" people of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania - the Old Order Mennonite and Amish. These roots have given Elva a unique perspective on just how effective chalk art can be at opening doors into this ultra-conservative world.

Raised with a solid work ethic, this mother of four also finds the time to write books, create art, teach classes, tend a farm and still keep a very busy performance schedule.

Listen to a streaming version here. Running time: 71:16

Right-click HERE to download the mp3 (audio) file.

Visit Elva's Chalk Art HERE.
You can read a nice review about Elva HERE from October, 2008.

(photo by Richard Hertzler of the Lancaster New Era)

The home of Elva's Barnyard Art Studio & Gallery

- Squeezing Ultra-Bright Black Light From Your Easel Hood

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 20:31:00 +0000

Over the years, I have had to wrestle with venues that were not darkened properly. There have been churches with huge skylights, floor to ceiling stained glass, and hosts that “forgot” to cover the windows, causing my fluorescent and hidden drawing effects to glow anemically (if at all). Most recently I was in a new facility which had auditorium lights that could not be shut off completely, only dimmed—a current trend in safety lighting for public buildings. For years, ambient light issues like these have plagued chalkers everywhere. But recently I discovered a fairly simple solution that solves most of these problems for a modest cost. Read the full article HERE.

- Episode 006: Dr. Rick Honea

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:42:00 +0000

Meet the new "kid" on the chalk art block, Dr. Rick Honea. Although Dr. H has only been chalking for a few months, he is certainly no stranger to the stage. He has been ministering, educating and entertaining as an illusionist, hypnotist, motivational speaker and more for over 20 years. Rick throws himself into everything he does with a characteristic passion that is both rare and contagious. As he is fond of saying, "You've only got one shot at this thing called life."

Listen to a streaming version here. Running time: 61:50

Right-click HERE to download the mp3 (audio) file.

Be sure to visit these interesting links to Rick's sites and other resources:
- Visit Rick's chalk site The Fires Within HERE.
- Visit Rick's Magic site HERE.
- Visit the church where Rick pastors HERE.
- Visit Rick's Hypnosis site HERE.
- Visit Rick's hypnosis clinic in Lubbock HERE.
- Visit the Fellowship of Christian Hypnotists HERE.
- Read how Rick uses an iPod in his shows HERE.

- Building Instructions For a Bed Sheet Easel

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:26:00 +0000

Have you ever thought about doing some chalk drawings on a really large format like bed sheets but weren't quite sure how to rig up an easel? You could travel with a portable projector screen frame or you could have your booking venue build this simple easel from pine boards and have it ready and waiting for you when you arrive at the program. Thanks to Dr. Rick Honea for making these plans available for free download HERE. Be sure to visit his site at TheFiresWithin.com

- Episode 005: James Snyder

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 20:43:00 +0000

There was a man in the Bible who was a carpenter for a while before he launched into full-time ministry. That would put our guest in pretty good company. Although he is a carpenter by trade, Mr. James Snyder anticipates the day when chalk ministry will become his primary occupation. His passion is already there.

Listen to a streaming version here. Running time: 40:48

Right-click HERE to download the mp3 (audio) file.

Visit Snyder Chalk Talk Ministries HERE.

Parable of the Sower from Mark 4:1-20

- Chalk Art: Catching the Vision

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 14:58:00 +0000

For those people just getting started, or hoping to, chalk art is among the rarest sub-genres in the world of performing arts evangelism. But there is a place of great joy and power waiting for you between the audience and the easel if you are just brave enough to try! This newly updated book covers the basics: materials, equipment, soundtracks and promotion. Click on the image to order this 39 page resource.

- Episode 004: Dr. David LeGrand

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 02:48:00 +0000

Who is the owner and proprietor of the world's only Chalk Art Resource Center? This episode features Dr. David LeGrand, veteran chalk artist, writer, inventor, professor, publisher of Chalk Art News and Chalk Art for Christian Ministry, and the owner of ChalkMart.com.

Listen to a streaming version here. Running time: 57:40

Right-click HERE to download the mp3 (audio) file.

- Soundtrack Wizardry

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 18:01:00 +0000

These notes explain how to use iTunes, iPod, & MP3Tech for organizing and managing your entire music library, customizing show tracks and taking wireless control of your show music. This newly updated edition is an entry-level tutorial that will explain the basics for setting up a searchable song database, music selection, mixing tracks, wireless playback and more. Click on the image to download this free 8 page resource.

- Episode 003: Dan Ondra

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 22:00:00 +0000

Mr. Dan Ondra knows what it takes to troupe a large, traveling, gospel variety show (and has the bad back to prove it). But even though the semi-load of equipment & props have been retired, one thing has remained the same - Dan's eagerness to assist chalkers everywhere and help their ministries flourish. As he often says: "There's no competition here - we're all on the same team." Dan is one of the most selfless chalk artists I know and has been a personal blessing to me.

Dan is not just a veteran chalk artist. His resume also includes being a teacher, author, magician, designer, inventor...well, too much to list here. Did I also mention that he is generous?

Listen to a streaming version here.
Running time: 63 minutes.

Right-click HERE to download the mp3 (audio) file.

These books are currently available as e-books from Dan's web site. Click on the book covers or titles to order.

Chalk Art Workbook A web-based chalk art training program. Learn to draw 7 different pictures step-by-step. 43 pages.

Fine Art Painting with Chalk (aka Art Theory & Therapy) A course consisting of 8 modules. 100 pages.

- Chalk Art Newsletter Archives

- Read this July 2009 edition of Chalk Art News featuring Dan Ondra.

See 17 more of Dan's chalk art concepts at DanOndra.com

- Being a Fool For Christ

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 04:31:00 +0000

Over a century ago, Sam Loyd designed one of the most popular and magical puzzles ever created—more than ten million copies were produced! This genuine puzzle masterpiece is called “Get Off the Earth” and features a posse of sword-wielding Chinese warriors. I was inspired to re-imagine Sam’s puzzle with an added gospel flavor and had been tinkering around with this for over a year. Then, one day, my daughter Christy suggested using clowns. Viola! Finally, my version called “How Many Clowns?” is ready for release.

Click here to watch the puzzle animate.

This picture shows how I have adapted the puzzle into a simple tract for children which they can cut out and assemble. Part of the copy reads:

How many clowns can you find? Point the cross toward clown A and you will find 12. But one is lost! Sharing the Gospel is as simple as pointing the cross toward clown B. Count again. Now there are 13! The lost has been found!

Every soul is a circus,
And every life is a tent.
So be a fool for Jesus,
And smile wherever you're sent!

For God will use the foolish.
Yes, reach out and clown around.
Use all your gifts for Jesus,
Seek and the lost shall be found!

Feel free to distribute this puzzle as a gospel tract or use it as a give-away at your programs.

Download a full page (8 1/2" x 11") version HERE.
Download a half page (5 1/2" x 8 1/2") version HERE.

- Episode 002: Gary Means

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 04:03:00 +0000

Have you ever had an epiphany moment in life? Our guest for this episode, Mr. Gary Means once provided such a moment for me in 1996 when I attended one of his chalk art conferences. What I experienced there changed my life forever so it seems only fitting that Gary should be my first guest on Chalked & Amazed! With over 50 years of chalking experience he is well qualified as a teacher of chalk art - and a great presenter (and friend) as well.

Listen to a streaming version here.
Running time: 63 minutes.

Right-click HERE to download the mp3 (audio) file.

To see pictures of Gary's 4 books with ordering information, click HERE. If you would like to watch a time-lapse video of Gary drawing, here he is at Southington Christian Church in rural Ohio where he was a part of their 2008 VBS.

- A Niche Worth Scratching: 25 Tips for Digging Up Free Music Online

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:51:00 +0000

Most chalk artists are always trying to improve their soundtracks. Yet, most of us don't want to spend a lot on music. Good news! The amount of free, legal music available on the internet for download is astounding. The problem is that some of it comes with nasty strings attached: pirated files (meaning free to you but often stolen from the copyright holder), embedded Trojan viruses or spyware, and much more. Getting through this minefield can paralyze even the most stouthearted into inaction.

But I have spent a lot of time digging through that online minefield and discovered some great gems buried out there: public domain music, vintage archive collections, sample production music, royalty free goodies, old vinyl, and freebies from musicians who post their works just because they want to share it. As you know, links come and links go. Hopefully most of these will still be active when you get around to looking. I have cut & pasted them directly from my browser to ensure accuracy. This article was originally written for The Christian Conjurer magazine.

Download the full article HERE.

If you have a favorite free music link you would like to share, send it my way and I will include it below as a supplement to this post.

Supplement Links to Article:
- Classic Cat: The Free Classical Catalog
- The Recordist (more free sound effects)
- GarageBand.com: Discover Independent Music
- SoundBible.com (free sound effects and clips)

- Episode 001: When Christmas Came to Thorn Creek Bridge

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 03:58:00 +0000

This first episode of Chalked & Amazed! does not follow the typical news & interview format which future episodes will have. This is actually an original chalk art soundtrack with a Christmas theme.

There are two versions of this audio story available for download. This is version one - narrated by me, which is why you may freely download it below. Version two is professionally narrated by George Sarris and may be downloaded as a bonus feature when you purchase Chalk Illustrated, issue #7.

Listen to a streaming version here.
Running time: 20:35

Right-click HERE to download the mp3 (audio) file.

A dream inspired this Christmas story over a decade ago which I wrote down and gave to my wife, Jil, as a gift. The idea of turning this tale into an old-style radio drama has been calling to me ever since. Now, I offer this story in its new audio format as my early Christmas gift to you - feel free to use it during the upcoming Christmas season (download a higher quality 256/38mb, mp3 file HERE or a Word version HERE).

The rewriting, editing, recording, and mixing were daunting but also a rewarding joy. I have not yet developed a drawing to go with this soundtrack but would enjoy seeing any designs you might create.

- Coming Soon!

kkistler@wowway.com (Kerry Kistler) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 03:06:00 +0000

Introducing something brand new for gospel chalk artists - a podcast designed just for you. It's time to kick the tires and see what's under the hood. It should be a fun ride once we get 'er up to speed so buckle in!

The old RV? It belonged to the first chalk artist I ever saw - my boyhood pastor and teacher Rev. Stephen Kiplinger. Stephen, thanks for leaving me chalked and amazed!