Mural Optimism - Public Art Mural in Hobart (2023)
Mural Optimism is a public art mural in Hobart, created in 2023 for a local neighbourhood setting in North Hobart. The mural was painted for Esteem Coffee on Elizabeth Street and designed to become part of the everyday rhythm of the place.
Rather than functioning as a standalone artwork, the mural responds to its surroundings and invites quiet interaction from people passing through the space.
Project Overview
Project type: Public art mural
Year: 2023
Location: 286 Elizabeth Street, North Hobart
Setting: Local café and neighbourhood environment
Client: Esteem Coffee
Format: Hand-painted mural
Process
Before painting began, a monochrome sketch was prepared and approved. Following this, the artist was given freedom to select colours and develop the final composition on site.
This process allowed the mural to evolve intuitively, supporting sincerity and emotional clarity in the finished work while remaining responsive to the space.
Concept
The mural reflects on the idea that every change begins with a small starting point. In this place, that beginning is a coffee bean - a simple, familiar element that opens the work to wider ideas of kindness, care, and everyday action.
As viewers spend time with the mural, they may notice birds and animals subtly embedded within the composition. These details are not immediately visible, encouraging slower observation and repeated encounters with the work.
Community Context
Created as a community mural, Mural Optimism was developed to support a sense of openness and positivity within a shared local space. The artwork does not demand attention, but offers a visual presence that becomes part of daily routines — something to notice gradually over time.
By working within a neighbourhood setting, the mural contributes to the atmosphere of the area and reflects the role of public art in supporting connection at a local scale.
If you’re interested in commissioning a mural or discussing a cultural or public art project, you’re welcome to get in touch.
About the Artist
Anna Mykhalchuk is a Ukrainian-Australian artist and muralist based in Australia. Her practice focuses on working with Samchykivka painting as a living cultural tradition, translated into contemporary mural, public art, and educational contexts.
Recognition
Mural Optimism was featured in Hobart Magazine (February 2023), highlighting the project as part of Hobart’s local art and cultural landscape.