If you happen to be in Dallas, seek out the new "Optimism Starts With You" mural that has gone up on the side of the Sheraton Dallas' parking garage, in downtown's Pacific Plaza Park. The giant public artwork has brought a bright burst of color to the area.
"Optimism is important for the community because it's something you can have inside of you regardless of what the outside circumstances are," says Mari Pohlman, the local artist who goes by Marpohl and who painted the mural. "How you can continue looking for opportunities and things you can still do even if you're in a tough spot."
It's the latest project in Frost Bank's Opt for Optimism campaign, in partnership with CultureMap. The colorful new artwork is based around the idea that optimism may start with one person, but it can easily ripple out through small acts and thoughtful moments, therefore changing the people and communities around you.
The mural's silhouette is meant to encourage passersby to stand in its place for photo opps.
Pohlman's hoping that the mural will remind everyone that it's okay to start small. "You may not know what impact your actions have, but it can continue out from you," she says.
Pohlman also created an Opt for Optimism Spotify playlist. Give it a listen if you're in need of some pick-me-up tunes.
And if you're looking for some fresh air, stop by and snap a pic with the uplifting mural at 400 N. Olive St. Be sure to tag @culturemapdal and #optforoptimism if you snap a picture.
