Our Mission

Mental health is a pressing issue for individuals worldwide, impacting communal well-being and societal efficiency. Previous studies have demonstrated links between exposure to nature or public art and improved mental health outcomes. For example, art in greenspaces has been specifically correlated with lowered blood pressure, heart rate, and hyperactivity, all characteristic markers for stress and mental illness risk, garnering interest in art as a potential solution to mental health risks. To this end, we designed the mural "The Breath of Life" for community display in the USF Botanical Gardens. The mural incorporates carefully selected natural elements (such as pollinators) and symbolic elements that represent connections between humans and the environment to elicit contemplation. We aim to explore how this piece and the surrounding greenspace impact viewers' interpretation and mood by examining community perceptions via open-ended surveys.