StreetSpark shares 2025 design

Hamilton, Ohio – Dreams come true.

One specific dream comes to life in Hamilton’s Jefferson neighborhood in the form of the 2025 StreetSpark mural going up this summer at Hamilton Living Water Ministry (510 S. Eighth St. Hamilton, OH 45011).

 StreetSpark Program Manager Jennifer Acus-Smith announced the winning design – Viva el Sueño (Live the Dream) by Anna Ganina of Austin, Texas - on Monday, March 31. “We’re thrilled to bring another StreetSpark mural to life, this time in the heart of the Jefferson neighborhood,” Acus-Smith said. “This summer, we’ll create this stunning new design with a talented team of local artists and help amplify Living Water’s mission to create a lasting, positive impact in their community.”

Ganina agreed.

“Through my work, I aim to create pieces that resonate with those who encounter them, sparking connection and fostering a sense of belonging,” she said. “Whether for a business, home, or public space, my murals are a celebration of identity, community, and the shared human experience.”

The face of a young girl highlights her 1,860-square-foot canvas and symbolizes the soul and future of the area. The Mexican Talavera patterns on her headband honor the Hispanic community in the Jefferson neighborhood.

Surrounding elements like flourishing florals and the bluebird in flight represent growth, resilience and the freedom to dream. The warm, golden backdrop radiates energy and optimism, fostering a sense of pride and belonging for all who view it.

“Viva el Sueño is designed to resonate deeply with the youth who attend Hamilton Living Water Ministry and the broader Jefferson neighborhood,” Ganina said. “The image of the young girl will speak to the kids who walk through the doors of the organization, reminding them that they are the future - empowered, encouraged and supported to embrace their dreams and pursue limitless opportunities.”

Acus-Smith said a committee of artists, visual art professionals, community members and program partners selected Ganina to create the mural. StreetSpark received nearly 100 applications last fall before the committee invited four semifinalists to proceed with design work earlier this year.

Work on the mural will begin in July with a dedication ceremony to be announced upon completion.

Founded in 2016 in partnership between the Fitton Center, the City of Hamilton and the Hamilton Community Foundation, StreetSpark furthers the creative identity of the city through exciting murals and public art projects. The program creates engagement by producing high-quality art, providing opportunities for local artists and enhancing the visual appeal of the city.

Since that first summer in 2016, StreetSpark artists designed and painted 20 murals and 17 utility boxes in a variety of styles. The newest mural – 2024’s Tourism Series: Hamilton – graces the retaining wall across from Spooky Nook along the Great Miami Recreational Trail.

At 250 feet wide by 15 feet high, the 3,750-square-foot wall became the second-largest mural in StreetSpark history behind 2017’s 4,500-square-foot Taking Flight mural near Rotary Park.

See all the murals online here or download a map here to visit them in person.

The Fitton Center for Creative Arts is located at 101 S. Monument Avenue on the Riverfront in downtown Hamilton, Ohio.

Building Community Excellence through the Arts and Culture