Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art and the Forrest County Board of Supervisors are seeking an artist to design and execute an exterior mural in the East Jerusalem/Newman community of Hattiesburg. Local, regional, and national professional artists are encouraged to submit their original designs through the formal Call for Artists process. To honor the rich heritage of the East Jerusalem/Newman area, concept proposals should thoughtfully incorporate elements that reflect its recognizable architecture and longstanding industries. Key themes include education, livestock, mercantile trade, small businesses, churches, seafood, produce, and local grocers, all of which played vital roles in sustaining and shaping the neighborhood over many decades.
The project district, located on the edge of Hattiesburg’s historic downtown, was a vibrant hub of commerce and education from the 1950s through the 1970s. Though the area experienced a period of decline in both commercial activity and residential population, it is now enjoying an exciting resurgence. This revitalization has been greatly supported by the completion of the Hall Street overpasses, among the most significant infrastructure projects in Hattiesburg’s history. These improvements have reconnected the neighborhood with continuous east-west access, increasing traffic flow and welcoming renewed energy, growth, and opportunity. “This mural is very important to me. I hope it will have an impact on the community, whether through memories of the hardships this area has triumphed or an educational moment for those who never heard of its story,” said District 2 Forrest County Board of Supervisor Sharon Thompson.
This project is an opportunity to celebrate contributions and create a meaningful tribute to the community’s enduring spirit and resilience. Images of iconic architecture and beloved businesses are provided in the Call for Artists to serve as inspiration for the design. The title of the piece, “Lest We Forget,” serves as a powerful reminder of the East Jerusalem/Newman neighborhood’s triumphant history and legacy.
“It’s important to us that murals be thoughtfully placed throughout Hattiesburg, ensuring all areas of our community showcase the value of public art and creative expression,” said Marlo Dorsey, CEO of VisitHATTIESBURG. “Art in public spaces reflects neighborhood identity and pride while strengthening our city’s curb appeal and green spaces.”
Words that capture the essence of the East Jerusalem/Newman neighborhood such as strong, gentle, proud, honorable, humble, confident, and beautiful, may be reflected in the artistic vision.
The mural will measure 20 feet wide by 9 feet tall once completed. Artist applications are due no later than June 2 at 5 p.m., and final design selection will be based on artistic merit, creativity, demonstrated ability, technical knowledge, overall budget, and the artist’s interpretation of the theme. For more details and instructions, interested artists may visit hburgart.com/artists. To learn more about HAPA or for a map of existing public art in Hattiesburg, visit HAPA’s Facebook and Instagram pages or hburgart.com.
