Downtown Orlando continues to transform into a vibrant, open-air gallery through the DTOLive Creative POP-UP Storefronts program - an initiative designed to bring art directly to the streets while supporting local artists and activating underutilized spaces.
In partnership with United Arts of Central Florida, the program invites residents, workers, and visitors to experience art in unexpected places. These installations are free, accessible, and designed to spark curiosity, conversation, and connection as pedestrians move through downtown.
From immersive displays to fashion and visual art, each POP-UP celebrates local creativity and strengthens community partnerships.
A Unique Month: Two Activations, One Space
For the month of May, the program takes on a new dynamic with two artists sharing the same space, offering visitors a layered and thought-provoking experience.
“Harder Than It Looks” by Sarah Shoulak
At first glance, Sarah Shoulak’s installation draws you in with intricately painted mannequins - each adorned with stunning, hand-painted mandalas that showcase symmetry, color, and craftsmanship.
But beneath the beauty lies a deeper message.
Each mannequin is painted in a color tied to a widely recognized awareness ribbon:
- Pink represents breast cancer
- Red represents heart disease
- Purple represents Alzheimer’s disease
What appears to be a visually striking display becomes a quiet reflection on the realities many people carry beneath the surface. The installation challenges viewers to consider what they may overlook in others - the unseen struggles behind outward appearances.
For some, it will simply be a beautiful window display. For others, it may serve as a powerful reminder of personal experiences and shared human connection. It invites us to look beyond the surface - to move past small talk and truly see one another.
Sometimes, that’s harder than it looks.
“Signal in Bloom” by Brendan O’Conner
Blending technology, identity, and place, Brendan O’Conner’s “Signal in Bloom” offers a striking contrast - one that feels both futuristic and deeply rooted in Orlando’s digital culture.
At the center of the installation is a human figure with a television for a head, continuously broadcasting a curated stream of Orlando’s social media presence. Surrounded by lush, pink tropical foliage, the piece creates a surreal, neon garden where the city’s digital voice comes to life.
“Signal in Bloom” invites viewers to reflect on how technology influences identity and how our collective digital footprint tells the story of a place.
Experience It for Yourself
The DTOLive Creative POP-UP program is more than an art initiative - it’s an invitation to slow down, explore, and engage with downtown Orlando in a new way.
Whether you’re passing by on your daily routine or visiting for the first time, these installations are designed to stop you in your tracks and leave a lasting impression.
Make time this month to experience May’s POP-UP storefront—and see what speaks to you.