HAPA UNVEILS TWO MURALS IN DOWNTOWN HATTIESBURG

HATTIESBURG, MS (March 31, 2025) –– Leading the public art initiative, Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art (HAPA) joined partners today to officially share two of the city’s newest large-scale murals, both of which are in downtown Hattiesburg. Continuing to make progress on its mission to become the “City of 100 Murals,” the two latest pieces mark numbers 61 and 62.

HAPA unveiled “JAM Session: Series 2” at the Rebekah Stark Johnson Community Arts Center to kick off the day’s celebration of public art. Painted by Jackson-based artist Reshonda Perryman, it is the second part of the JAM Session series, which pays tribute to musicians with ties to Hattiesburg. This phase features Webb Wilder, Van Dyke Parks, Afroman, and Fred Armisen.

Honoree Armisen was in attendance for the unveiling due to a planned stop in Hattiesburg on his “Comedy for Musicians but Everyone is Welcome” tour. Armisen is a Hattiesburg native, actor, comedian, writer, and musician. For his musical talents, Armisen was previously on Saturday Night Live as a repertory cast member and in the Late Night with Seth Meyers house band. He has also appeared in numerous television shows and movies during his career.

“To see myself as a musician highlighted on this wall next to these other artists is an honor, of course,” said Armisen. “It is a double honor that I am born here. Hattiesburg is a constant reminder in my life. I am proud and honored to be from here.”

Combined with the first mural in the series, unveiled in May 2024, JAM Session boldly showcases Hattiesburg’s role in developing American musical styles like rock and roll, blues, jazz, and hip hop with a total of 12 artists illustrated. Perryman will continue to add finishing touches to the mural throughout the week, ensuring it’s a lasting portrayal of the community’s musical legacy. “JAM Session is one of my favorite projects to date and the second phase is actually a big personal milestone for me,” Perryman says. “It is incredible to be back adding to a piece I love and once again having the opportunity to share my gifts amongst such a wonderful creative landscape.”

Continuing the celebration of milestones, “Hub of Momentum” was also unveiled today on the side of longtime downtown eatery The Porter Pub. This mural illustrates the progress of Hattiesburg from a railroad and lumber town into a vibrant hub of activity, featuring the train depot, pines, and a guitar alongside an arrow representing continued development and what lies ahead. Designed by internationally recognized cultural artist GONZO247 of Houston, Tex., the mural is painted in his signature graffiti and street art style.

“It has been a great experience and honor to design and paint a mural for Hattiesburg. I have learned about the city’s rich history and enjoyed finding creative ways to incorporate imagery and elements into my artwork,” said GONZO247. “The mural nods to the past and optimistically looks forward to the future of this dynamic community. I hope it inspires connection and conversation among all who encounter it.”

Both murals unveiled today point to Hattiesburg’s foundation and continued growth as an arts destination.

“Hattiesburg has a deep appreciation for the arts, and we are thrilled to see our city continue to embrace creativity in public spaces. It’s a privilege to host such talented visiting artists to contribute to Hattiesburg’s landscape and experience our creative energy,” said HAPA executive director Marlo Dorsey. “We will continue our intentional efforts to not just increase the presence of public art but to make it an accessible and integral part of our community.”

“JAM Session” series parts one and two were made possible through a collaboration between HAPA and the City of Hattiesburg. “Hub of Momentum” was funded through a Downtown Hattiesburg Association façade grant, property owner Mitchell Clarke, and contributions from HAPA.

“These murals capture timeless parts of the Hattiesburg story while amplifying our current progress and inspiring future artists who come from our great city,” said Mayor Toby Barker. “They each infuse color and personality into a downtown area that’s often hidden in plain sight. We are grateful to all who brought these ideas to life.”

Since 2020, Hattiesburg’s public art has grown significantly throughout the city, in murals, sculptures, and utility boxes. Hattiesburg has been listed as an emerging public arts destination by numerous publications and several additional art projects are underway for 2025. To learn more about HAPA or for a map of public art in Hattiesburg, visit HAPA’s Facebook and Instagram pages or hburgart.com.