2022’s “Free To Be” theme was in a way the absence of a traditional theme for us. Coming out of the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we wanted to acknowledge people’s excitement for life post-pandemic, though we liked that “Free To Be” also provided tremendous flexibility for artists.

Following a very difficult selection process, we chose the mural design of Sarah Hout, as we were drawn to its positivity, vibrancy, and sheer beauty. Sarah’s design was based on a photograph from Donte Woods-Spikes, and the hummingbirds were inspired by the photography of Rick Schneurer, both Columbus artists. Sarah submitted three different color versions of the same design, but we immediately fell in love with the blue background. We also loved that the woman’s gaze looks toward Broad Street, thereby greeting passersby and welcoming people to the Hilltop.

While working on the mural, Sarah quickly endeared herself to neighbors, and she effortlessly connected with community members of all walks of life. This is ultimately the goal of every project we take on: Find ways to connect with community members and make them part of the process, though it’s all the more rewarding when those connections happen organically. While the majority of Sarah’s interactions were positive, they didn’t all start that way. Below are a few examples she shared on social media:

“The other day, a lady pulled over and got out of her car to tell me how grateful she was for this gift to her side of the city, tears streaming down her face. Another lady was walking her children to the nearby bus stop, wide-eyed and jaw-dropped, overwhelmed by the [mural subject’s] emanating joy. Her little girl wanted a photo together.

Meanwhile, this mural is already building bridges within the community relationally, and I am over the moon. At the beginning of this project, people would honk and catcall me. Now they yell out their window to tell me how much they love the mural - the artwork seems to have shifted the atmosphere from disrespect to respect. Don't tell me public art doesn't have power. I am so honored to create this for you, Hilltop.”

As if that wasn’t enough, Sarah had been commissioned by Verizon Wireless to do a kindness-themed mural as part of Verizon’s A Call For Kindness campaign, and she chose to do that mural on the opposite wall of the same building! That’s right: Another mural for the Hilltop! She invited the community to help, and over two community paint days, friends, community members, and even some ARtsway students helped bring the Kindness Looks Good On You mural to life.

We’re incredibly grateful to Sarah for giving the Hilltop two beautiful murals, for being a joy to work with, and for really immersing herself in the community.

Major thanks goes to Boyce Safford and the Columbus Next Generation Development Corporation, the property owners, for their trust and buy-in on this project. Everything we asked for, Boyce and team were able to deliver. Thanks also goes to photographer Rachel Barehl, who was kind enough to share her stunning photos of the mural dedication with us.