Ellie Sveine shows off her signed copy of “A Little Story about Sidewalk Chalk Art”

NEW ULM — New Ulm’s Own Fair Trade & Art store was busy Saturday morning, thanks to a book signing from local author and illustrator Kara Carlson.

Carlson signed copies of her book “A Little Story about Sidewalk Chalk Art” in the store. The book features a collection of Carlson’s chalk art drawings she created during the COVID-19 pandemic. Carlson’s artwork caught the eye of many neighbors. She was encouraged to take pictures of her chalk drawings, as these images were temporary. Carlson photographed every chalk drawing and soon realized she had enough images for a book.

Her book includes most of the chalk images she created and tells the story behind the drawings and how her art changed.

The book proved popular. Early in the day, New Ulm’s Own had a line of people coming in to get a copy of Carlson’s book.

“I was hoping to sell 10 books,” Carlson said. She managed to achieve this goal before the signing started on Saturday. About 15 books were sold on Friday. Carlson sold signed 13 books within the first hour of the event Saturday.

New Ulm’s Own agreed to host a book signing. As a fair trade store, New Ulm’s Own work to make sure profits went to those who created the work being sold. A book signing fits the mission statement.

In addition to the book signing New Ulm’s own was holding a silent auction of original chalk drawings made by Carlson. The auction is open to bids until 4 p.m. December 16. All profits will go to a local charity.

New Ulm’s Own will continue to sell copies of “A Little Story about Sidewalk Chalk Art” as supplies last.