#ChalkOutCovidOK: Art Campaign Uplifts, Encourages Oklahomans Through COVID-19

Oklahomans are using art to lift spirits and encourage others to stop the spread of COVID-19. It all started when a state Department of Health employee went for a run.

“I was out running over the weekend…and I saw somebody had used chalk to say a very important message ‘wash your hands’ and I was so impressed by that, it's really nice to see,” said Kristin Davis.

A simple phrase "wash your hands" is so powerful during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It's not only saving lives in Oklahoma, It's given birth to a campaign that's bringing Oklahomans together through art with the hashtag "chalkoutcovidok" on social media.

“Our original tweet had almost 10,000 impressions. It is something creative and fun, but it is also getting serious messages out,” Davis said. “Two girls, probably siblings, they are actually writing a message that says stay home and it was really cute. It looks like they are on their driveway.”

Besides driving home helpful tips -- the art campaign is also proving to be good for mental health.

“I see the message as connecting, being able to connect online and through this campaign, people can connect with each other,” Davis said. “I think that brings people hope.”

Hope created by the Oklahoma standard could soon spread across the country.

“I spoke with somebody earlier today who works in Ohio and they were thinking about starting the same chalk out COVID campaign in their state. So, we think it will be fun to see this go national.”

The state Department of Health wants Oklahomans to grab some chalk, go to your sidewalk, and share the ways you, and those you love, are doing your part to protect our communities.

“Having this kind of campaign, it empowers people. We can do something, let's chalk out COVID in Oklahoma,” Davis said.

This is a community bonding and empowering campaign. Residents are urged to keep their artwork on their property. And share your creations with #chalkoutcovidok.