A new mural is bringing a familiar symbol back to Five Points.
The 1,700-square-foot artwork celebrates the LGBTQ community and its connections. It sits near the former rainbow crosswalks on Park Street.
The Florida Department of Transportation ordered those crosswalks removed last year. FDOT said the removal was intended to eliminate distractions for drivers.
Now, the rainbow is back in Five Points in a new form.
Local artist Shaun Thurston painted the mural, called “Constellations of Us.” The artwork features community members throughout the colorful design. It also includes same-sex couples represented as radiant light. Thurston said the light represents an inner spark within people. He said that spark represents what connects people together. The mural uses rainbow colors to emphasize that connection.
Nicole Lacy frequently visits Five Points and welcomed the new artwork. She said the mural provides an important visual representation of support. Lacy is also married to a woman. She said the mural feels especially meaningful after the crosswalks disappeared.
“I think having it back and finding a way to still keep it intact is beautiful. One of those things you look at and think – this is what makes it worth living here.”
Nearby business owners also said they appreciate the artwork.
Asha Vishwakarma owns Curry Guys next door to the mural. She said the artwork brightens the street and sends an important message.
“We are just so welcoming to the LGBT community.”
Lashaun Adams owns Tweeds Custom Suits nearby. He said the mural represents an important part of Five Points history.
“I love the colors here. It’s not just a great photo op, but it shows the history and things that should just be remembered here in 5 points.”