DALLAS (AP) — Dallas is gearing up for the World Cup this summer, but not everything is going smoothly. One big change has caught people’s attention: the removal of a beloved mural featuring swimming whales.
Katy Rose Cusick, a local student, expressed her shock: “I see that mural almost every day on my way to school. It was startling to see it painted over so quickly.” This mural, which has been part of the downtown scene for nearly 30 years, is being replaced by new artwork tied to the World Cup.
The artist, Wyland, shared his disappointment, saying, “When a piece that holds meaning for generations disappears without discussion, it raises serious questions about how we value public art and the communities these works represent.”
In response, Cusick and her friend Joshua Hurston, both seniors at a local arts high school, started a petition on Change.org. They aim to raise awareness about protecting such cultural treasures, gathering hundreds of signatures from others who cherish the mural.
“If we can’t save the mural, we want to prevent this from happening again,” Hurston said. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the World Cup organizing committee stated they are excited to unveil new art that reflects the spirit of the World Cup, noting that a part of Wyland’s mural would be preserved as a tribute to its memory.
Dallas will host more World Cup matches than any other city: nine in total at AT&T Stadium, the home of the Dallas Cowboys. The stadium will be temporarily known as ‘Dallas Stadium’ for the event.
Downtown Dallas Inc. has confirmed they were part of early talks regarding the mural’s removal. They clarified that the mural was not part of the city’s public art collection. The building’s owners were approached earlier this year to make room for new public art by a local artist.
Wyland’s mural, called “Whaling Wall 82,” was dedicated in 1999. He has created over 100 similar murals globally, all aimed at raising awareness about ocean conservation. “This wasn’t just a mural; it was part of my mission to unite people in protecting our oceans,” Wyland said.
Public art plays a vital role in community identity, something that’s been shown in various studies. For example, a 2021 survey found that 77% of people believe public art enhances community pride. As cities evolve, it’s essential to find a balance between new developments and the preservation of art that tells our stories.
With many looking forward to the World Cup festivities, it’s crucial to consider how Dallas will honor its past while embracing the future. This conversation around the mural highlights the need for dialogue about the art that shapes our landscapes.
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Visual arts, Dallas, United States National Soccer Team, Soccer, General news, Texas, TX State Wire, Sports, FIFA World Cup, Entertainment, Joshua Hurston, U.S. news, Katy Rose Cusick
