B.C. utility pole covered in positive messages created by mystery person wearing a unicorn mask

Adam finds out the mystery behind a utility pole showcasing artistic hearts that’s connected to a unicorn cultivating kindness

VICTORIA, B.C. — When she first approached the utility pole, Ellery did a double-take.

“It just kind of popped up out of nowhere,” she says.

Like finding a flower unexpectedly growing from a crack in the sidewalk, hearts suddenly started blossoming all over this power pole.

“It’s very nice,” Linda smiles, touching a colourful sign that says, ‘Together we are better.’

“It’s inspiring.”

The pole is covered with all sorts of quotes about hope and kindness.

“It’s nice to have these small moments that make you smile,” Kelly says, before walking closer to a wooden heart with a quote credited to Mother Theresa that says, ‘Peace begins with a smile.’

While the people passing say the pole has been sprouting positivity for a few years now, no one seems to know who created it.

“I’ve never been able to discover that,” Linda says.

“It’s mystery!” Kelly laughs.

“I don’t know,” Ellery smiles. “[Maybe] it’s a magical neighbourhood fairy.”

As it turns out, it’s someone who just happens to have a magical neighbourhood unicorn mask and is wearing it to remain anonymous.

“I care for it. I curate it. But I don’t want the credit,” The Unicorn says. “I want this to be about the community.”

Because it began as a way of cultivating kindness in her community at the start of the pandemic.

“There was a lonely pole,” The Unicorn says. “And I thought, ‘Hey! Why not put some art on it?’”

So, with the help and inspiration from a family filled with unicorns—and she has pictures of them also wearing unicorn masks—The Unicorn started hand-crafting a couple of positive things to post on the pole, plus an invitation for others to do the same.

“It was a spot of lightness,” The Unicorn says. “In comparison to a lot of bad news and fear.”

And it’s flourished ever since. Countless contributions of have come and gone over the years, from the substantial to the silly, created by people of all ages, including Ellery, who was inspired post some of her favourite poems.

“There’s just something really delightful,” Ellery smiles. “About one person and then another person adding things to an otherwise boring street corner.”

Linda makes an effort to visit the pole a few times a week.

“It’s something positive that we need right now,” Linda smiles.

Kelly is engaging with the pole for the first time and smiles after pointing out a sign that says, ‘You are loved.’

Although the pole first bloomed during an unprecedented time, its positive impact is proving perennial.

“Hard things continue to happen,” The Unicorn says. “Actions like this and messages like this help us remember, you never know the difference a smile can make for someone.”

Like unexpectedly spotting a unicorn walking down the street, it can feel like magic.

“Kindness and love,” The Unicorn says. “It is magic when we’re able to connect in those ways.”