The Ocala Municipal Arts Commission meeting on August 6, 2025, highlighted significant developments in the city's public art initiatives, including the unveiling of a new mural and the acquisition of a striking sculpture.

Commission members celebrated the completion of the Levitt 2025 art project, which features a vibrant mural created by five commissioned artists. Each artist painted two panels, resulting in a cohesive artwork that reflects the themes of the Levitt concert series. The mural has been treated with a protective clear coat to enhance its durability against UV rays and graffiti, ensuring its longevity for at least five years.

In addition to the mural, the commission discussed the recent acquisition of a sculpture titled "Double Helix," created by respected Southern artist Hannah Dubrin. This piece, currently displayed in Tuscaloosa Park, symbolizes the connection between the universe and microscopic DNA structures. The commission emphasized the importance of diversifying the public art collection, noting that this sculpture introduces a scientific theme that has been lacking in their existing collection. Plans are in place to relocate the sculpture to the front of the Discovery Science Center, where it will complement other artworks.

Funding for the sculpture was sourced from the cultural arts general fund, utilizing leftover funds from a previous event. The commission expressed satisfaction with the effective use of these resources to enhance the city's artistic landscape.

Overall, the meeting underscored Ocala's commitment to enriching its public art offerings and fostering community engagement through artistic expression.