Public Art

Mural Arts Trail

Downtown Sanford’s public art scene has exploded over the past five years. Murals, sculpture, ceramic panels, and brick work can be found in every nook and cranny of Downtown Sanford.

World War II glider pilots. The Fabulous Hudson Hornet. 3-D cows. Tobacco plants. A baseball player. An architect. What do these have in common? The can all be found in bigger-than-life scale on the walls of Downtown Sanford buildings. Sanford’s colorful history comes alive in eight vibrant murals and five beautifully restored ghost signs.

Visitors are invited to pick up a trail map and discover Sanford as told through art.

Locomotive No. 12 Scavenger Hunt

All aboard! Kids of all ages will delight in this train-themed scavenger hunt. Replicas—twelve to be exact— of the No. 12 locomotive found in Depot Park are hidden throughout Downtown Sanford.

Pick up your passport and follow the clues. Find all twelve and turn in your passport to choo-choose a prize!

Growing Volunteers

In May 2019, a brand new sculpture was dedicated in honor of Helen Hincks, longtime Downtown Sanford, Inc. board member and volunteer. Mrs. Hincks was passionate about Downtown and could often be found selling hot dogs at the Christmas Tree Lighting or swinging her foot to the music at Function at the Junction. She is probably most remembered for her tireless efforts to maintain the flower pots along Downtown sidewalks, filling up countless milk jugs to water the plants.

To recognizer not only Mrs. Hincks efforts, but those of all volunteers who work to make their community a better place, the Growing Volunteers sculpture was designed and installed in Depot Park. You can find it near the fountain.

Other Public Art

At the corner of Carthage and Moore streets, Heritage Park features four ceramic panels, which represent the four seasons. Within the park are benches and low walls highlighted by square brick insets fashioned by Sanford residents of all ages and with varying degrees of talent. Together they create a truly unique wall of memories.

Later when Depot Park, a true urban park was developed, DSI continued to emphasize the importance of public art by incorporating art into one of the entryway signs/kiosks. The Depot Park logo was featured in brick relief.

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