There's a new draw in Mercado, and it's not just the latest foodie pop-up. Cristina Salas, a mosaic maven from New York, is piecing together what's set to become the centerpiece of Mercado's fresh-faced community space. A vibrant plaza located at Cleveland Street and Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard, with a central lawn hugged by raised planters and a sundry shade structure, is getting a mosaic makeover courtesy of Salas - and it's shaping up to be a feast for the eyes.

Chosen by the community in what could be called a creative showdown, Salas’ task is to translate the area’s effervescent buzz into a tangible narrative—one mosaic fragment at a time. Known for her expansive murals and spirited fiber art, she has a knack for blending color and composition in a way that speaks, and Mercado's grounds are her latest canvas. Speaking about her work, Salas told a fellow media outlet, "Each mosaic is a journey of connecting pieces, colors, and stories." According to the City of Clearwater, the piece taking shape at Mercado draws inspiration from the area’s diverse community energy.

For those curious about what goes into creating such a massive piece of public art, process photos have been shared – documenting the painstaking selection of tiles and the artist's careful method, arranging each piece with precision. These behind-the-scenes looks not only nod to Salas' unwavering commitment but also give locals a taste of the beauty soon to deck out their community hub.

With completion slated for this month, the buzz is palpable. Residents and visitors alike are waiting to see just how Salas' kaleidoscope of glass, tile, and grout will encapsulate the spirit of gathering and the collage of lives intersecting at Mercado. According to snapshots provided by the artist, each tile placement is deliberate, meant to echo the individuality and collective stories of those who will mingle amongst the work.