HAPA UNVEILS JIMMY BUFFETT INSPIRED MURAL IN MIDTOWN HATTIESBURG

HATTIESBURG, MS (Oct. 1, 2024) – Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art (HAPA) is pleased to announce the unveiling of its 57^th mural, titled “Parrots in Paradise.” The vibrant new addition, designed by Gulfport artist Lucinda L’enfant, pays homage to the late Jimmy Buffett. The beloved musician attended college at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) in Hattiesburg, where he made great strides toward his illustrious career.

“Parrots in Paradise” draws inspiration from the tropical imagery and carefree themes Buffett was known for, incorporating a large parrot, sun-soaked beach, and the signature laid-back vibe that makes his music timeless. The creative design captures the essence of his work, transporting visitors to a paradise that echoes Buffett’s artistic legacy.

“Bringing the spirit of Jimmy Buffett to life through this mural has been a truly rewarding experience,” said L’enfant. “I wanted to capture the essence of carefree moments and the art and balance of escapism through the project.”

Buffett attended USM in the late 1960s, where he studied history and journalism. During his time at the school, Buffett honed his musical skills, performing at local venues and developing the beach-inspired sound that eventually became his signature style. Hattiesburg played a key role in Buffett’s early career and his experiences in the city and at USM were formative, laying the groundwork for his lifelong love of storytelling through song. Nods to USM dot the mural.

Located in midtown Hattiesburg, the mural’s unveiling continues the significant momentum of the city’s growing public art scene. Longtime local business London & Stetelman Commercial Realtors partnered on the project, helping add another chapter to Hattiesburg’s vibrant culture.

“I am thankful HAPA provided London & Stetelman the opportunity to honor the creativity and culture Jimmy’s Coral Reefer Band continues to provide to the music industry, which many state started at Southern Miss,” said Andy Stetelman. “I became a Parrot Head before the name was coined and am elated to honor their musical success with this public display.”

The completed piece marks the eighth mural and more than a dozen painted utility boxes in the district.

“We are proud to partner with local business owners like London & Stetelman that have long invested in shaping Hattiesburg into the community it has become,” said Marlo Dorsey, CEO of VisitHATTIESBURG. “This mural further evokes a sense of connection and reflection for all who encounter it in midtown.”

Buffett’s ties to Hattiesburg remain significant. The mural is anticipated to draw in music lovers who wish to continue celebrating his spirit. The final design stands at 75 feet wide by 14 feet tall.

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 for 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.