Florida Welcome Center debuts new mural for Orange Juice Day
You might know May 4th as Star Wars Day, but it’s also National Orange Juice Day! To mark the occasion, the Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC) and Visit Florida unveiled a new mural created by artist Lauren Hom at the Official Florida Welcome Center.
“Drink In The Sunshine”
Hom’s mural radiates with the phrase “Drink in the sunshine.” Hom surrounded the lettering with fronds of oranges and grapefruits in their natural greenery. Their bright colors and imagery evoke positivity as visitors enter the state.
Hom, who uses her art to tell stories for brands, has collaborated with the FDOC on other artwork for two years.
The mural is 23 feet long and 12 feet high. It serves as an appropriate backdrop for the counter where visitors can taste free samples of Florida-made orange juice and grapefruit juice. The spot also doubles as a fun selfie location.
“The Heart Of A Citrus Grove”
The art welcomes travelers to the sunshine state by making a statement.
“Our goal is for visitors to step into a space that makes them feel as if they’re in the heart of a Florida citrus grove,” said Shannon Shepp, executive director of the FDOC. “The mural incorporates vibrant colors found in Florida orange and grapefruit groves as inspiration.”
“We’re excited to partner with FDOC and Lauren Hom to showcase the beauty and nutritional benefits of Florida citrus through this stunning mural installation,” said David Dodd, vice president of Visit Florida.
Some of those nutritional benefits include vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Such healthy qualities earned Florida orange juice the nickname “The Original Wellness Drink.”
Where Is The Florida Welcome Center?
Visitors can find the Official Florida Welcome Center shortly after crossing the Florida state line from Georgia on Interstate 95. Take exit 380, north of Jacksonville.
The FDOC invites travelers and locals alike to post their moments at Florida Welcome Centers on social media. Use the #ojselfie and tag @floridaorangejuice.
