Colorful chalk covered the pavement as students gathered for the annual Chalk It Up event. Students transformed ordinary concrete into vibrant works of art.

Among the participants was senior José Emilio Espinoza, who spent the day creating a drawing that reflected his artistic interests.

“I’m drawing one of the characters from one of the series I really like. It’s Haru. It’s a bunny rabbit,” Espinoza said.

The character choice was not random. Espinoza enjoys drawing animals and considers it one of his strengths as an artist.

“It’s usually because I’m a furry. I really like to draw animals. It’s my specialty, if you could say,” he said.

Preparation played an important role in the project. Rather than creating the design on the spot, Espinoza relied on a sketch he had completed months earlier.

“I already sketched it a couple months ago. Of course, for this round today we have to sketch it, because if not it’s going to look like trash,” Espinoza said.

The artwork featured more than just a rabbit. Espinoza added a flower to create a seasonal feeling and enhance the overall design.

“The details—the face details and the petals—because I am also drawing a flower next to the bunny rabbit,” he said.

The flower helped communicate the mood he wanted viewers to experience.

“Because it’s summer. It gives like a nice feeling,” Espinoza said.

This year’s event was especially meaningful for Espinoza. As a senior, it marked his final opportunity to participate in Chalk It Up.

“This is my third time, and last, because I’m going to graduate,” he said.

Throughout the day, participants worked outside using basic art supplies. Espinoza completed his drawing independently using chalk, water, and a brush.

“Water, chalk, and a brush. There’s not much technique on that,” Espinoza said.

Although the materials were simple, the conditions were challenging. Spending hours outdoors required patience and endurance.

“The sun,” Espinoza said when asked about the biggest challenge.

“You have to be like six hours doing it. Most of the time it is sunburn, and usually the wind because sometimes the wind kicks up your things,” he said.

Despite those difficulties, Espinoza remained focused on finishing his work and sharing his artistic abilities.

“A bunny rabbit. That’s the only thing I want them to see, and my skill also,” Espinoza said.

For Espinoza, the artwork carried personal significance. He viewed the project as something he wanted to accomplish for himself rather than for recognition.

“I’m doing it more for myself,” he said.

As graduation approaches, he hopes the drawing will serve as a reminder of his time at school.

“I am already going to graduate, so at least I want to have something to leave behind,” Espinoza said.

His final Chalk It Up artwork represents both his passion for art and the legacy he hopes to leave behind before graduating.