Exploring Tampa
Bay’s Public Art and Murals: A Colourful Journey Through the City
Tampa Bay is a city where creativity and
culture meets on the streets. From colourful murals to large-scale public art
installations, Tampa’s urban landscape is a vibrant canvas of artistic flair.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a photographer, or just looking for the
perfect Instagram shot, Tampa’s public art scene is sure to inspire.
Over the past decade, Tampa has experienced
a mural renaissance, transforming blank walls into captivating works of art.
These large-scale paintings reflect the city’s history, celebrate its diverse
communities, and add character to local neighbourhoods. Today there are over
300 public art installations dotted across the city, showcasing the melting pot
of culture that Tampa has become.
We have rounded up some of the most notable
pieces not-to-be missed on any Tampa Bay itinerary. Come on over to visit our city-wide
gallery.
Viva Ybor Mural
Located in
the heart of Ybor City, the "Viva Ybor" mural is a vibrant homage to
the neighbourhood’s rich cultural heritage. This artwork prominently features
Vicente Martinez Ybor, the founder of Ybor City, alongside other iconic
elements such as the Historic TECO Streetcar and the famous wild roosters that
roam the area.
The mural
celebrates the legacy of Ybor City, paying tribute to its deep-rooted history as
the Cigar Capital of the World and a melting pot of Cuban, Spanish, German and
Italian influences. The inclusion of key historical figures and everyday
symbols of Ybor’s past and present makes this mural a cultural landmark that
locals and visitors alike appreciate. Painted by @chicolesnyc.
Tampa Postcard Mural
The iconic
"Tampa Postcard Mural" is a nostalgic tribute to the city's heritage,
featuring a collage of Tampa Bay’s most recognisable landmarks. This classic
postcard-style mural captures the essence of the city with elements such as the
José Gaspar pirate ship, a nod to Tampa’s legendary Gasparilla Festival, the
minarets of the University of Tampa, symbolising the city’s impressive
architecture, and the Historic TECO Streetcar, representing Tampa’s deep-rooted
transportation history. Painted by Carl Cowden III.
Stay
Curious
Located
across from the Glazer Children’s Museum in the heart of Tampa’s downtown arts
district, this multi-building mural was created to inspire people of all ages
to discover the creativity that surrounds them. The artwork transforms the area
into an immersive experience, encouraging visitors to explore their imagination
and engage with Tampa’s thriving artistic culture.
Positioned
in a cultural hotspot near museums and performance spaces, this piece serves as
a welcoming gateway to Tampa’s artistic identity, making it a must-see for both
locals and visitors alike. Painted by Tes One and @knownasba.
All
for Love
Inspired
by everything Tampa Bay, the mural painted by Illsol can be found in downtown Tampa and is already an icon
and must-visit locations within the destination. The “All for Love” mural
represents the original neighbourhoods of Tampa through the local wildlife – there
is a rooster for Ybor City, a two-headed alligator for Seminole Heights, and a
star for West Tampa near to the rooster’s head.
Evangeline’s
Feast
Located
at the wine storage building of the legendary Bern’s Steak House, a must visit
Tampa restaurant. The artist – Tristan Eaton – visited the iconic restaurant
and upon learning its deep history and the culture of the area created this
colourful mural in South Tampa. The art also incorporates an image of the
restaurant founder, Bern Laxer and is a must spot when visiting the
neighbourhood. Painted by Tristan Eaton.
Beyond
murals, Tampa Bay boasts an impressive selection of sculptures and interactive
public art including the unforgettable Phoebe the Flamingo who has gained viral
fame, greeting travellers at Tampa International Airport.
A
21-foot-tall flamingo sculpture that plays with perspective, making the viewer
feel submerged in water as they look up at the flamingo, emphasising
interconnectedness of the human world with nature.
Tampa Bay’s
public art and murals serve as a visual love letter to the city’s rich culture,
history, and artistic talent. Whether you’re admiring a large-scale mural in
Ybor City, catching the sunset with the illuminated bridges of Agua Luces, or
exploring hidden artistic gems in the Heights, Tampa’s art scene is an
experience worth discovering. To find out more please visit: https://www.visittampabay.com/things-to-do/tampa-arts-culture/