Name: Dave Johnston
Position: Artist
Notoriety: known locally as the ChalkMaster
Profile: He chalk wonderful works of art on the sidewalk for donations. He's usually found at Yonge-Dundas Square.
Amplified Device By-Law
So City Hall says street performers such as myself, living statues, recently in the paper Shibaten the musician, dancers and more are not allowed to play music which "uses an amplified device" ... this no music situation as by City Halls' definition is a little insane. any radio no matter how small is an amplified device therefore I can't use music while I'm out there.
So, I've decided to ask for emails of support from you all ( if you agree) so that i may approach City Hall to have this unfair by-law thrown away. I am a responsible street performer, I try to make sure my music isn't too loud nor offensive. I keep my area clean and safe and responsibly renew my permit every year even though I've been asked only 3 times for it in over 10 years. I do charity work for my community and teach kids how to use art instead of violence as coping mechanisms, i do events that sometimes can't afford my fee simplyh because I may be doing well at the time and i never forget the support I've had from my community and lets face it ... chalk art and a little music is so much nicer than cigarette butts and gum stains for looking at while strolling downtown.
Stores, cars, and outdoor events can blast music to the point that you have to yell to hear people beside you, yet i cant reasonably play my music while bringing something positive and enjoyable to the public ... seems a little wrong.
If you don't mind sending me an email stating your support i would appreciate it. I plan on taking a fine and fighting city hall on this one, citing noise pollution as reason to not be able to play music as a part of my art is unacceptable when I'm in the core of a city...a city, seriously, lol....such a weak weak argument.
my email is
sincerely dave, chalkmaster
