Why Art May Be a Better Investment Than an Ad

Medical crises often pull families into environments defined by sterile corridors and high-stress decisions. For parents and families navigating these moments, a sense of comfort and optimism is often hard to find. The physical spaces surrounding them can make an important difference in this, serving as a relief to them and everything they're going through. When the Ronald McDonald House of Jacksonville renovated and built "Adventure Alley," a 2,200 ft family-oriented play area and hangout space, the design objective went beyond structural square footage. The challenge was to integrate evidence-based spatial design into the architecture of the Teen Room and Kid Zone areas to create optimistic, creative, and connective spaces for young people to spend time. Children and siblings facing profound challenges deserve joyful walls and fun hangout spots just as much as any other child, so our goal was to make that possible. 

Healthcare is first and foremost about ensuring the well-being of all people and communities. Because this well-being is heavily influenced by the physical environments we inhabit daily, art in these spaces must serve a deeper purpose. Art is not just decoration—it is a bridge, helping connect people and place. When the Florida Department of Health sought to humanize its clinical environment, our team designed and executed eight custom walls across their facility. These pieces serve as intentional visual anchors that lower cognitive stress, ground the space in local identity, and promote long-term community positivity. When working in the healthcare sphere, we create site-specific, hand-painted art that improves the patient and visitor experience by transforming sterile clinical environments into warm, welcoming spaces. This can simultaneously lower anxiety and build community trust. Through this process, art becomes a strategic asset that promotes psychological comfort and reinforces an institution’s commitment to inclusive care.

Transforming Winn-Dixie's Space into the First-of-Its-Kind Community Room Winn-Dixie needed their first-of-its-kind community room to follow corporate brand guidelines while feeling genuinely welcoming to the neighborhood. Our Goal was to transform the space into a vibrant community hub. Over the course of a month, Heartspace Art worked as a spatial design partner to balance corporate identity with neighborhood warmth. Our team then completed the physical on-site installation in just four days, delivering a high-impact experience ready for the store's grand opening.

Jasmine Monroe: Well, it's National Mural Day, and what better way to celebrate that than with Danielle Cleary. She is from Heartspace Art. She's a local artist using creativity to uplift and connect communities through powerful, one-of-a-kind murals. Thank you so much, Danielle, for joining us here this morning. Danielle Cleary: Thank you so much for having me. Jasmine Monroe: Well, I know that this is a very special day for you all. I wanna tell the folks at home, when you are driving, make sure you keep your hands 10 to 2. Right? But these murals are so captivating when you see them going by. You see your murals everywhere. Tell me all about how you got started. Danielle Cleary: Well, my husband and I met at an art event, and he told me he wanted murals first. And so that's kinda how things got rolling, and that was over a decade ago. We started Heartspace Art in 2018, and now we just really love painting murals all over Jacksonville to beautify and uplift the community. We feel like art really touches people in a way that—like music, you know? Jasmine Monroe: It really does. And even taking a look at this one, tell me all about what we're seeing right behind us. This mural stands out—one of the best murals that you guys do, especially in and around town. Danielle Cleary: Yeah. So this project is with the Department of Health, and it's in their hallway, where the lower-income community comes in to get their vaccines and see doctors, if they can’t afford their own healthcare and things of this nature. We worked closely with the Department of Health to represent them in the way that reflects the people who visit this area. We really wanted to showcase their mission—the words, the responsiveness, and everything they represent there. And so I feel like we did it. I'm very proud of this project. Jasmine Monroe: And every one is different. So when you're going into these projects, you have these meetings. What is it that people need to know when it comes to seeing murals and how to appreciate them? Danielle Cleary: Right. So every project is like our baby, and we really want to make sure that we are sharing the message of our client or bringing in that energy that really represents how they want their people to feel—whether it's in their home or in an establishment like this. Jasmine Monroe: I always ask the artist, what is your favorite piece? What is your favorite type of art to do? I know it's like putting you on the spot, but what do you think—or I should say, what was the hardest project you’ve accomplished, and you were like, “Wow, I can’t believe we really finished that”? Danielle Cleary: I would say our project with Gateway Jax. It's downtown, right when you're going into Springfield. They had a tight timeline and a large, large project. So I would say that was the most challenging in the way that we really had to pull resources. Not only do we have our own team, we also subcontracted other local muralists. We’ve worked with about 12 to 15 local muralists over the time that we work on these projects sometimes. Jasmine Monroe: You mention that you have a lot of help too. It’s not just you and your husband. How do you go about finding the next big artist in Jacksonville? Danielle Cleary: Oh my gosh. That’s a great question. So all of our artists are either from Douglas Anderson—we have a relationship with the school— And then several of our artists are UNF graduates. We also work with the university to give artists an opportunity to have their dream job: to paint. Not everybody wants to run a business. A lot of artists don’t know how to do that or don’t know where to start, and so we really can give them that platform to stand on. Jasmine Monroe: I like to say artists, you know, they don’t like the cut and dry. Right? They want their freedom. So I do love that when you get a chance to see this artwork, it is completely, you know, mind-blowing, and it's amazing. So thank you so much. Happy National Mural Day, and hopefully, you guys are gonna get out and get a chance to appreciate some of your work too as well. Because I know you're just, like, fully engulfed in it sometimes, but sit back and look at what you’ve done. And, you know, you’re beautifying Jacksonville. We were called a city that’s boring. Right? But not—not this artwork. Not these pieces. Danielle Cleary: That’s right. Jasmine Monroe: Alright. If anyone's interested in booking you—how do they go about doing that? Danielle Cleary: Yeah. You can go straight to our website, heartspaceart.com, and that's exactly where you can find us. It says “Book a Call,” and you're actually going to find me. I’m the one who will be answering the phone and talking to you. Jasmine Monroe: She is. Yeah. I can say that. I called, and it returned me—you answered. Well, Danielle, thank you so much for joining us here on Good Morning Jacksonville. Folks at home, if you’re interested in all this information, all you have to do is go to firstcoastnews.com. We will be right back.

When it comes to transforming a space, the options can feel endless — wall wraps, digital printing, wallpaper, and more. But one choice rises above the rest: the hand-painted mural. At Heartspace Art, we specialize in creating custom murals that do more than fill a wall — they shape a space, tell a story, and leave a lasting impression. If you’re considering different wall treatments, here’s why murals remain the most powerful, sustainable, and artistic solution available. An Investment in Creativity and Longevity Unlike vinyl wraps or printed wallpaper, which are often designed to be temporary or trend-driven, murals are built to last — both visually and emotionally. With proper care and sealing, a mural can endure for decades without fading, peeling, or bubbling. While wraps and wallpapers typically show wear after just a few years, a mural becomes part of the space itself — a permanent, meaningful fixture rather than a replaceable layer. Murals offer: Fade-resistant finishes with UV protection Easy maintenance and touch-ups No adhesives or synthetic backing to deteriorate over time This makes murals not only more cost-effective over the long term, but also more respectful to the integrity of your walls and the environment. Murals Are Tailored to You Many wall coverings are mass-produced, with limited opportunities for true customization. Even digital printing, while flexible in theory, can lack the depth and warmth of something crafted by hand. A hand-painted mural, on the other hand, is designed specifically for your space. Whether you're looking for something bold and contemporary or soft and organic, murals allow unlimited creative freedom. Every curve, color, and texture is intentional — responding to your vision, your brand, and your story. This level of personalization transforms a space in a way that no pre-made wallpaper or wrap can replicate. Art That Connects — Not Just Covers There’s a significant difference between decoration and expression. Wall wraps and printed graphics are often used for promotional or branded messaging — effective for advertising, but rarely inspiring. They are visual tools with expiration dates. Murals go deeper. They create emotional resonance, turning ordinary walls into landmarks and conversation starters. Whether in a business, public space, or private home, murals cultivate connection — with your audience, your community, and the place itself. Rather than shouting for attention, murals invite engagement. They aren’t just seen; they’re felt. Sustainable by Nature As more people prioritize environmentally responsible choices, the sustainability of a mural becomes even more compelling. Unlike synthetic wraps or wallpaper, murals don’t rely on vinyl, plastics, or chemical adhesives. We use low-VOC paints that support healthier indoor air and reduce harmful emissions. Our process is efficient and low-impact — typically involving just paint, brushes, and skill — leaving behind minimal waste and a lasting impression. There’s no mass production, no heavy shipping materials, and no need for disposal when it’s time for a change. Touch-ups and adaptations can be made directly on the wall, keeping the artwork fresh and the impact minimal.

Boost local culture, support artists, and build a vibrant, inclusive city through creative investment in public art/ murals . 🏙️🖌️

In today’s rental market, aesthetics are no longer just a bonus — they’re part of the value proposition. Travelers are drawn to spaces that feel intentional, immersive, and connected to their surroundings. As design continues to evolve beyond trends and into storytelling, one element is emerging as a powerful differentiator: integrated art. In this project, we explore how thoughtful mural work can quietly redefine a property’s identity, enhancing both experience and investment.

Small businesses are the backbone of any community, playing a crucial role in a city’s economy. In Jacksonville, they drive job creation, innovation, and community growth. With small businesses employing over 50% of the workforce in Northeast Florida, their impact is undeniable. Their resilience and creativity are key to the city’s success, and as more entrepreneurs emerge, they continue to shape Jacksonville’s vibrant future.

I n the heart of downtown Jacksonville, a powerful transformation is taking place—not just through new buildings and retail spaces, but through the creation of public murals that are reshaping the city’s urban landscape. These vibrant works of art are more than just decorative elements; they are becoming key drivers of change, contributing to both the cultural and economic revitalization of the area. Collaborating in this transformation is Heart Space Art, a collective of talented artists, alongside Gateway Jax, a real estate development company committed to revitalizing downtown Jacksonville. Through strategic collaboration, these murals are playing an integral role in the city’s evolution.