Spring in the Short North always brings a little extra energy. This year, it’s bringing a new face to one of the neighborhood’s most recognizable walls.
A reimagined version of the iconic Mona Lisa mural is officially on the way.
Titled She Moves with Color, the new piece is being installed now along High Street on the side of the Moxy Hotel. It’s a fresh take on the original mural created in 1990, which has long been one of the defining visuals of the Short North Arts District.
This time around, Columbus artist Mandi Caskey is behind the work. Her version keeps the spirit of the original while giving it a more modern, colorful update that reflects how much the neighborhood has changed over the years.
And here’s the fun part. You don’t have to wait for the big reveal.
Installation is already underway, which means if you’re walking through the Short North over the next couple of weeks, you can actually watch the mural come together in real time. It’s not every day you get to see a piece of public art at this scale being created right in front of you.
The mural is expected to be finished in early May, with a public dedication planned for June.
The original Mona Lisa has been part of the Short North for decades, first painted by artist Brian Clemons and gifted to the community by the late Sandy Wood. It’s one of those pieces that people recognize instantly, even if they don’t know the full story behind it.
Now, it’s getting a new chapter.
The update is part of a broader effort to keep public art in the Short North evolving alongside the neighborhood itself. That includes new installations popping up in places like Goodale Park and the eventual retirement of older works to make space for what’s next.
Of course, spring here isn’t just about looking at art. It’s about getting out and being part of it.
Gallery Hop is back on May 2, bringing its usual mix of exhibitions, open galleries, and pop-up performances. It’s one of those nights where you can wander without much of a plan and still end up seeing something great.
The following weekend, High Street shuts down for Hops on High, turning the road into a pedestrian-only stretch filled with artists, vendors, and hands-on activities. Expect everything from live performances to interactive art, plus plenty of spots to grab a last-minute Mother’s Day gift that doesn’t feel last-minute.
And if you’re the type who likes a standing plan, Fourth Street Fridays return once a month through the summer. It’s a more low-key setup with live music, local businesses, and an easy excuse to spend a Friday night outside.
Behind the scenes, there’s also a push to make the neighborhood feel a little more welcoming across the board. That includes expanding ambassador teams, adding more on-the-ground support, and continuing efforts to keep the area clean, safe, and easy to navigate during busy weekends.
All of it adds up to a pretty packed season.
