HAPA UNVEILS “A MOSAIC OF FREEDOM” IN CELEBRATION OF AMERICA 250

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (Sept. 30, 2026) — Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art (HAPA), in partnership with America250, America250 Mississippi, Hattiesburg Landmark Preservation, and the Mississippi Arts Commission, unveiled HAPA’s 71st large-scale mural, Mosaic of Freedom, today in downtown Hattiesburg. Painted by artists Kym Garraway and Emma H. Sullivan, the mural honors Hattiesburg veterans and their service to nation and community.

Created in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary, Mosaic of Freedom is part of America250 Mississippi’s year-long celebration and its theme, “Power of People and Place: Mississippi is the American Story.” The project received support through a Mississippi Arts Commission America250 Mississippi Public Art Grant.

The mural spans an exterior brick wall approximately 14 feet high and 80 feet wide at 315 Main St. along the rail line in downtown Hattiesburg. Its prominent location gives residents and visitors a visible tribute to the service and contributions of local veterans.

The artwork highlights the lasting impact of veterans who have returned home to raise families, build careers, lead organizations, and serve their communities. A Mosaic of Freedom connects those contributions to the sacrifice represented by their time in uniform, placing veterans within the larger story of Hattiesburg. From its history as a transportation and timber hub to its growth as a center of education, healthcare, and small business, the city’s progress reflects the work of generations of residents.

Following the unveiling, veterans gathered for a fish fry and reception at VFW Post 3036.

A Mosaic of Freedom is now featured on the HBURG Public Art Trail, which includes more than 120 pieces of public art throughout Hattiesburg. To learn more about HAPA and explore the trail, visit hburgart.com.

QUOTES

“As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, HAPA pauses to honor and reflect on the service and sacrifice of Hattiesburg’s veteran community. Their courage, commitment, and defense of our nation’s freedoms are woven into the story of this community and into A Mosaic of Freedom. This beautiful, original artwork will stand as a lasting patriotic tribute in downtown Hattiesburg, and having it created on the façade of a building owned by a veteran makes it even more special.” – Marlo Dorsey CEO/Executive Director of VisitHATTIESBURG/HAPA

“As a veteran and business owner preparing to retire from military service, I’m incredibly proud that our property can serve as the backdrop for 80 feet of patriotic artwork honoring those who have served our country. It is especially meaningful to me to pay homage to the veterans who served before me, those who continue to serve today, and the veterans who choose to keep serving their communities long after their military service has ended. This is a path I hope to follow myself.” – Jayson Trawick, Property Owner

“On behalf of VFW Post 3036, its Auxiliary and the Hattiesburg Veterans Committee, I am honored to salute the partners who made this mural honoring U.S. veterans possible. Thank you for your service.” – Ted Tibbet, Chairman of the Hattiesburg Veterans Committee

“Hattiesburg’s story has always been shaped by people who choose to serve. Our veterans return home to build businesses, raise families, lead organizations and invest in others. A Mosaic of Freedom honors that continued service while adding another meaningful piece of public art to our city.” – Mayor Toby Barker, City of Hattiesburg

###

A program of VisitHATTIESBURG, HAPA began in 2014 through the leadership of community members and donors passionate about making art accessible to all. HAPA continues to place art throughout Hattiesburg and raise awareness of the city’s existing public art.