HAPA UNVEILS MURAL WITH GANDY LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

HATTIESBURG, MS (Oct. 20, 2025) –– Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art joined partners to cut the ribbon on the city’s latest public art project. The piece, titled Glass Ceiling, is a continuation of Hattiesburg’s 58th mural, first unveiled in November 2024 in downtown Hattiesburg.

Located near the heavily traveled intersection of Mobile and Batson streets, the commissioned piece honors the late Evelyn Gandy, known for her pioneering and collaborative path in Mississippi politics. In addition to many local and state roles, Gandy served as lieutenant governor of Mississippi from 1976 to 1980. As the first woman elected to a statewide office in Mississippi, she broke the glass ceiling for many who came after her.

Phase two of the mural series was completed in partnership with the 19th Amendment Committee and state Rep. Missy McGee’s 2025 Gandy Leadership Academy, following work begun by the 2024 academy class. The academy is composed of Hattiesburg ninth graders who had the opportunity to paint components of the mural. Led by McGee, the six-week academy meets twice a month to help foster a greater sense of self, community awareness and civic engagement among high school-aged female residents.

“Many thanks to Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art and the 19th Amendment Committee for allowing our 2025 Gandy Leadership Academy to continue the mural that was begun by last year’s class,” said McGee. “We are pleased to add to the public art offerings of our city while continuing to celebrate the contributions of the late Evelyn Gandy, who was a trailblazer for all the women who came behind her.”

Pine Belt artist Kym Garraway painted the latest mural installment with assistance from emerging local creative Emma Hodges and the 2025 Gandy Leadership Academy.

“HAPA’s mission includes lifting up artists while continuing to grow Hattiesburg’s vibrant public art scene,” said HAPA CEO Marlo Dorsey. “This project has given students the chance to see how their creativity can transform a space and inspire others. It’s a powerful way to help them build confidence, connection, and pride in their city.”

The phase two addition measures 19 feet wide by 13.5 feet high. Its location ensures the design will be seen by many, including visitors to area merchants such as The Lucky Rabbit, Forrest County Chancery Court, Sugar Daddy’s Bakery, Fairley’s Wings, The Bottling Company, and others.

Since 2020, HAPA has worked to significantly grow Hattiesburg’s public art throughout the city, both in murals and utility boxes. The total number of public art pieces in the community now exceeds 100. To learn more about HAPA or to view a map of existing public art in Hattiesburg, visit HAPA’s Facebook and Instagram pages or hburgart.com.

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A program of VisitHATTIESBURG, HAPA began in 2014 through the leadership of community members and generous donors passionate about publicly sharing art and making it accessible to all. HAPA continues to purchase and place art throughout the city – in parks, neighborhoods, public buildings, and businesses – while also raising awareness for works of art already in the area. The organization is partially funded by VisitHATTIESBURG, Mississippi Arts Commission grants, the City of Hattiesburg, and other local organizations and individuals who believe in the importance of public art.