Street Painting originated in Italy in the 16th century. Street painters were called "madonnaro", which translates to Madonna, because the early images were mostly of the Madonna. As this art form continued, the subject matter expanded to other religious icons and reproductions of old masters. Now, hundreds of years later, the subjects of street paintings are unlimited, and range from simple to very complex.

In 1972, the small northern Italian town of Grazie Di Curtatone held its first International Street Painting Festival inviting artists to come and show spectators their talent through this historic art form. This festival continues to be an annual event, and is held each year in mid-August.

Street Painting in the United States became popular in the mid 1980's and many U.S. Cities hold annual events as well.

TOP: Reproduction of St. Matthew and an Angel by Guido Reini
BOTTOM: Reproduction of Madonna of the Chair by Rafaello Sanzio