Go exploring, earn prizes: See sculptures, murals on new Hattiesburg Public Art Trail

Hattiesburg has a longstanding tradition of supporting public art with many murals and sculptures on display throughout the city. The Hattiesburg Tourism Commission has made it easier to find them all with its new Public Art Trail.

The trail features more than 40 works of art in a brochure that includes a map of their locations.

The Art Trail celebrates the art found in the community and the artists behind the works, Hattiesburg Tourism officials said in a news release.

Discover the art

There are several ways for residents and visitors to tour the trail, including a digital brochure and interactive map, available at hburgart.com/trail or by downloading the VisitHBURG mobile app. Stops along the trail are identifiable by permanent street signage. The map provides details about each work and the artist behind it.

Ricardo Moody, local art teacher and muralist, has several works featured on the trail.

“Public art is important for Hattiesburg because it highlights the vibrancy of our city and its people," Moody said. "The pieces featured on the new trail have the ability to activate space, creating an inviting place where new interactions take place."

'Differences make our city stronger'

Mayor Toby Barker said the city's public art also celebrates its cultural diversity.

“Diversity should not simply be recognized, tolerated and accepted," he said. "It should be celebrated across all dimensions, including in key aspects that play a vital role in our quality of life … like public art.

“Our differences make our city stronger, and the art that is displayed along this trail are visual representations of that — from murals that will literally take your breath away because of their artistic detail and meaning, to sculptures that will stand the test of time."

The art trail also offers an opportunity to engage safely in outdoor activites with the self-guided tour. In 2020, the Hattiesburg Tourism Commission said because of the coronavirus pandemic it shifted its focus to socially distanced, outdoor activities that may be enjoyed year-round.

“We now celebrate the artistic growth of our community during the last year, and we are better for it in many ways,” said Marlo Dorsey, executive director of the Hattiesburg Tourism Commission. “We celebrate our strengthened relationships with so many talented artists and are finding our stride as we step into the next phase of truly emerging as a modern, creative hub.”

Here's how to find art, win prizes

The Hattiesburg Art-a-Thon began Wednesday and continues through May 31. The multi-week event encourages people to explore public art at their own pace. Participants will be provided a passport redeemable for prizes at local shops and restaurants.

The passport is available at participating business or may be downloaded at visithburg.org/visithburg-blogs/hattiesburg-art-a-thon. A list of partner locations can be found at hattiesburgpublicart.org.

For details on the Public Art Trail and how to participate in the Hattiesburg Art-a-Thon, visit hattiesburgpublicart.org.

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