Wondering what all that dust and racket was in downtown Rockmart yesterday?

A local business owner and an artist who wants to increase her portfolio while also doing something for the community are teaming up together to paint a positive message on the side of a building and replace a mural that has faded over the years.

Stacey Lovvorn, owner of The Perch on Marble, is working with Rockmart High School student Elizabeth Stone to put a new mural on the side of the Brackett Cleaners, which until Saturday featured a mural in black and white celebrating the arts next door to the Rockmart Arts Theater.

“We are very excited about this project and hope it brings a renewed feeling of community during what has been a difficult year for all,” Lovvorn said.

The plans are to replace the mural with a design based around a positive message meant to promote well being in all parts of life with “good vibes” that will be visible from many parts of downtown from its location on Elm and North Marble Streets.

Elizabeth’s mom Maria Norris said that family friends provided the much-needed sandblasting first and that the plans are to begin painting in November.

Stone is using the mural as part of her efforts to grow her portfolio of artwork to submit to the Savannah College of Art and Design to further her education when she graduates. She received help from RHS art teacher Kristin Branham, along with Rome artists Bryan and Callette Hollingsworth.

Lovvorn said she designed the new mural in hopes of bringing the community together, and volunteer participation is being sought for the project. Additional details about when and how many volunteers are needed will be forthcoming later this week ahead.