Blog Post

“Historic Dublin Lives” Project Brings Art and Awareness to Historic Dublin

Historic Dublin Art Installation

A passion project of Megan James, President and Digital Strategist of MJ2 Marketing, the “Historic Dublin Lives” mural was temporarily installed at the corner of High and Bridge Streets in Historic Dublin on Thursday, May 7. 

A resident of a nearby neighborhood and owner of a business in Historic Dublin, Megan is very aware of the impact that the statewide stay-at-home order has had on the area.

“It struck me that I would love to be able to shine a light on these businesses and build awareness among the residents who are walking around the Bridge and High intersection.” 

She worked with the Historic Dublin Business Association, with support from the City of Dublin to move the project forward, seeing it to fruition in just about two weeks. A central part of the success of the project is the talent of Dublin resident, Polly Sellers who created the artwork. 

A wedding photographer by trade, Polly has taken to creating “daily doodles” and posting on her Instagram to stay creative and support local businesses during the stay-at-home order. Her doodles on a Columbus-themed poster caught Megan’s eye and within two weeks the “Historic Dublin Lives” project became a reality. 

“I find that creating more of these pieces like the art installation allows me to really relate to my art. Sitting and drawing these little “icons” or mini drawings, is really about having fun, and it soothes me in a way,” she says.  

Born and raised in Dublin, Polly notes, “Dublin has been home to me my whole life, so it has been very special to be able to work on this project,” she says. “Especially in Historic Dublin, where I have the best memories hanging with my friends here, and growing up here.”

She enjoys these projects but is excited to focus on her business, Polly Sellers Creative, that recently celebrated two years, and is hoping to get back to wedding photography soon. “I have photographed two weddings out of the country – one in Switzerland and one in Guatemala – and I have loved every minute of it! I also love being in Columbus and celebrating with all my local brides and grooms!” 

The mission of the “Historic Dublin Lives” project is to highlight the wide variety of small businesses that make up the fabric of the Dublin community. To support HDBA and its member businesses, contact info@historicdublin.org to purchase a poster of the artwork.