Local artist Paula Brinkman kicked off the new year “with love and art” while painting a window mural at Queen Street Gifts on Thursday, January 2.

Owner Andrea Appelbaum asked Ms Brinkman to decorate her storefront, and Ms Brinkman delivered with her signature hearts in a red and white “2020” display. Many may recognize her style of heart art, having seen it at the 2019 Newtown Arts Festival, where her heart designs were showcased.

Ms Brinkman, who paints outside every day, enjoys using a washable paint called tempera for her artwork. However, since it is washable, the designs only last until a rainstorm, which followed the morning after the storefront windows were painted. Fortunately, the building’s overhang kept it dry, and the art remained intact.