1) What is the “The Heart of High Springs”?

The Heart of High Springs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, all-volunteer organization that was formed to further quality causes and ideas that benefit High Springs. It is independent of the city government but works closely with it. Our website is HeartofHighSprings.org and contact information can be found there.

2) Who runs the Heart of High Springs?

Volunteers. The current Board of Directors is listed at HeartofHighSprings.org.

3) What projects does the Heart of High Springs support?

The first project is the 2023 Walldog Event. Other activities are being planned.

4) Who or what are the Walldogs?

The Walldogs are an international community of highly skilled mural artists and sign painters. They are dedicated to preserving the art of wall mural storytelling and advertising.

5) What is a Walldog Event?

In their annual Walldog Event, artists are invited by a community to paint beautiful murals on building walls. The paintings have local historic significance. The mural themes are selected by the community.

6) Why are the Walldogs coming to High Springs?

High Springs has the feel of a small town with decades of history rooted in our downtown. The Walldogs have been invited here to help preserve our history through art, while securing a sense of place and creating economic opportunity. This will be the first Walldog event in the State of Florida and the only such event in 2023. It is certain to bring national attention to High Springs.

7) Have the Walldogs worked in other communities? Can I see examples of what they have done?

The Walldogs have been around for more than 25 years and there have been 31 Walldog Events so far. There are many excellent videos and images online. Visit their website at TheWalldogs.com. Communities that have held Walldog events have experienced a long-term positive impact.

8) When are they coming to High Springs? How long will they stay?

The festival will happen in March 2023 and last for about 5 days. It will have immediate impact and attract visitors for decades.

9) How much will this cost and who pays for it?

A Walldog Event typically costs around $120,000. Funding is entirely through donations and grants. Actual cost will depend on the number, size, and location of the murals and whatever support can be secured through donations of services vs cash outlay. The budget is developed in the many months leading up to the event and depends on many factors including city guidance, number of murals, wall surfaces, and painting size.

10) How many murals will be painted?

There will be no less than 10 and no more than 15 murals. A typical mural is 160–200 square feet, although sizes can vary as space and budget allow.

11) Who decides where the murals will go?

Community volunteers will identify locations, working with building owners and our Walldog consultant.

12) Who decides on the content and theme of the murals?

The residents of High Springs. The process begins by collecting stories about people, events, and places that define High Springs.  Various ideas will be researched, followed by open forums and vote. At that point, artists engage and design the murals.

13) How many artists will be coming to High Springs? Where will they stay?

We expect 200–300 artists and volunteers from all over the world to converge in High Springs. The Heart of High Springs is hosting the event and will provide for their accommodations and food.

14) Will any local artists be involved?

Yes, there will be plenty of contributions from local talent. To get a preview, community members should consider participating in a Walldog event in another city.  Information can be found on the Walldogs website.

15) Can anybody participate in the painting activities?

Yes! We encourage contributions from anyone, regardless of age, artistic skill, or available time. It is important to have as much local involvement as possible.

16) How will these murals benefit High Springs?

A community adorned with a variety of beautiful wall murals is a prime tourist destination.  This will be the first such event in Florida. High Springs is in a great location as it easily accessible from Interstate Highways 75 and 10.

17) How have previous Walldog Events affected other communities?

Past Walldog events have a proven track record of drawing the local community together to share their stories and history.  There is ongoing impact with increased tourism and town pride.  The Heart of High Springs chose the Walldog organization because they have over 30 years of positive experiences and results with their mural festivals. 

18) Will the murals require upkeep and maintenance?

An ongoing maintenance plan is part of the overall program. The original artists will be consulted first for this work, followed by the event coordinator, then local artists.

19) Are there any other events happening in High Springs during the Walldog Festival?

We anticipate that there will be community gatherings, walking tours, musical entertainment, a silent auction, an event app, meet-and-greets, and much more.  Details will be released closer to the festival. 

20) High Springs has a lot of needs. Can’t this money be better spent?

The Heart of High Springs, Inc. is a charitable organization that supports culture, economic growth, and tourism by promoting artistic, cultural, economic, educational, historic, and revitalization activities in the High Springs area. The goal of the organization is to provide a vibrant community for all residents, visitors, businesses, non-profit organizations, and local government. There will be targeted fundraising for the Walldogs event.  The goal is to have this project funded without financial support from taxpayers. Please bring us your ideas for future projects. 

21) How can I get involved in this?

This is an ambitious, challenging project that requires input from many individuals with a broad range of talents and skills. The most important requirement is having a “can-do” attitude. Contact us!