Public art in South Walton goes beyond aesthetics, turning everyday spaces into meaningful destinations. From murals and sculptures to underwater installations, it reflects the area’s identity, history, and values while fostering connections among locals and visitors. Highlights include:
- Underwater Museum of Art (UMA): The first permanent underwater sculpture garden in the U.S., blending art and marine conservation. Established in 2018, it now features 53 sculptures that double as thriving artificial reefs.
- Murals and Installations: Projects like the Grayt Wall of Art and Inlet Beach Pedestrian Underpass showcase local talent and transform public spaces into storytelling canvases.
- Economic Impact: Public art attracts tourists, boosts local businesses, and supports the area’s economy through increased foot traffic and longer visitor stays.
- Community Engagement: Events, workshops, and artist collaborations strengthen bonds within the community while showcasing local creativity.
South Walton’s art scene combines visual appeal with deeper connections, offering visitors and residents a unique way to experience this coastal destination.
Cultural Arts Alliance & The Underwater Museum of Art
The Underwater Museum of Art: Art Meets Marine Conservation
Beneath the waves of the Gulf of Mexico lies one of South Walton's most fascinating public art projects: the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA). This is the first permanent underwater sculpture garden in the U.S., located 58–60 feet underwater and about 0.7–0.93 miles from Grayton Beach State Park. But UMA is more than an artistic endeavor - it’s also a response to a pressing environmental challenge. The Gulf coastal waters off Walton County are predominantly barren sand flats, covering 95% of the area.
Established in 2018 through a collaboration between the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County and the South Walton Artificial Reef Association, UMA blends public art with marine conservation. Sculptures are carefully chosen and deployed to promote marine growth, transforming into thriving reefs over time. Since its inception, over 100 species of animals and plants - including fish, mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates - have been observed at the site. UMA’s impact hasn’t gone unnoticed; TIME Magazine named it one of the 100 "World's Greatest Places" in 2018, and it received the 2023 CODA Award for Collaboration of the Year. This fusion of art and conservation provides a unique backdrop for exploring its standout installations and visitor experiences.
Key Installations and Artists
Each year, UMA expands its collection with new sculptures. By the seventh deployment in Summer 2025, the museum will feature 53 unique pieces.
Among the most notable works is "The Neptunian Oak" by Nathan Hoffman of Highlandville, Missouri. This sculpture, with its hollow trunk and intricate bark, invites marine life while symbolizing the resilience of nature. Then there’s "Happy Hour" by Sarah Wilkinson, a margarita glass–shaped creation designed with textured surfaces to attract algae and marine organisms, creating a thriving underwater habitat. "Hometown" by Mandy Yourick takes a minimalist approach, emphasizing simple shapes that evoke a sense of belonging and serve as a home for marine life.
Recent additions highlight UMA’s innovative approach. Deployed in 2024, "The Lost Kingdom of Artemis" by Denna Ameen resembles an Atlantean ruin, complete with three entrances and an open ceiling, making it accessible to sea turtles and other creatures. Nathan Hoffman’s "Poseidon's Throne" is a large structure with multiple niches, symbolizing a collective effort to protect ocean life. In 2023, seven sculptures were added, including "Quantum Reef" by Chris Chubb, which combines habitat creation with STEAM education, and "Space Nest" by Frank Henderson, featuring a geometric design that provides durable spaces for marine life.
Visiting UMA
To explore the Underwater Museum of Art, visitors must be certified divers comfortable with open-water conditions. The sculptures sit 58–60 feet below the surface, making proper preparation essential. Admission is free for divers, and guided dive trips are available through local providers like Dive30A. UMA has earned a perfect 5.0/5 rating on Tripadvisor, with divers praising its vibrant marine habitats and the creativity of its reef designs.
For those planning a dive, the centerpiece sculpture - SWARA Skull - can be found at Latitude 30°18'45.262" N and Longitude 86°09'33.722" W. Beyond its appeal to tourists, UMA also functions as a hands-on research site for marine scientists, ecologists, wildlife experts, and students studying artificial reef systems and their ecological impact on the Gulf.
UMA doesn’t just redefine public art - it strengthens South Walton’s dedication to combining culture and conservation. As Jacques Yves Cousteau once said:
"The best way to observe a fish is to become a fish".
This sentiment perfectly captures the immersive experience UMA offers to its visitors.
Murals and Outdoor Installations: Local Culture on Display
South Walton’s public art scene offers a vivid glimpse into the community’s identity. While the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA) redefines the coastal experience, the area’s murals and outdoor installations transform streets and public spaces into vibrant storytelling canvases.
Famous Murals of South Walton
One standout project is the Pedestrian Underpass at Inlet Beach, located at the intersection of Highway 98 and County Highway 30A. This ambitious initiative features 10 murals created by local artists, all curated by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County. The theme, connectivity, ties the pieces together. Jennifer Steele, President & CEO of the Cultural Arts Alliance, shared the vision behind the project:
"The theme of the murals was connectivity, and we wanted the murals to be inspired by the artist's connectivity to the landscape, to the built environment, and obviously our connections with each other."
- Jennifer Steele
In late 2024, the project is set to grow with the addition of replica sculptures from the Underwater Museum of Art. Works like Vince Tatum’s Common Chord, Kevin Reilly’s Let’s Not Blow This, and Rachel Herring McCord’s The Grayt Pineapple will bring a new dimension to the space.
Another community favorite is the Grayt Wall of Art in Grayton Beach. This ever-changing outdoor gallery, located at the corner of Garfield Drive and Hotz Avenue across from The Red Bar, transforms a simple fence into a lively canvas. It features colorful depictions of cacti, flip-flops, sea life, and even American flags. Other must-see murals include the Butterfly Mural at Modus Gallery - perfect for a photo op at The Shops of Grayton - and the Dog Wall near Black Bear Bread Co., which celebrates the area’s love for its furry residents.
In Seaside, the Vincent Scully Mural blends architectural homage with contemporary street art. Created by urban artist Andrew Pisacane, also known as Gaia, the mural honors Vincent Scully, often called the “Father of New Urbanism.” The artwork portrays Scully against a backdrop of the Acropolis in striking purple tones, a centerpiece in Seaside’s city square.
These murals set the stage for outdoor installations that have become cherished landmarks within the community.
Community Landmarks and Their Stories
South Walton’s outdoor installations tell stories that resonate deeply with the local culture. The Grayt Wall of Art, for instance, reflects Grayton Beach’s quirky motto: “NICE DOGS STRANGE PEOPLE.” Co-organizer Allen French captures the essence of the area:
"It's funkiness, laid back attitude, a fantastic tree canopy, a beautiful Dune Lake, and the nicest beach on Earth."
"Art brings people together. The Grayt Wall provides a chance for locals, tourists, adults and children to experience art, touch art, photograph art, take selfies with art and enjoy art, all for free."
- Allen French
In Rosemary Beach, the biennial Sculpture Exhibition takes a more formal approach, showcasing contemporary outdoor sculptures along cobblestone streets and open green spaces. A standout piece is the permanent Blue Dog sculpture by the late George Rodrigue. The upcoming exhibition, themed “Exploring Environmental Interdependence Through Public Art,” highlights the community’s growing focus on sustainability.
Meanwhile, Alys Beach integrates art seamlessly into its Mediterranean-inspired architecture. Sculptures like Turtle Bale, Wooden Horse, Tänzerin, and the recently added Recline in Blue enhance the elegance of the surroundings.
These murals and installations do more than beautify South Walton - they create spaces where people gather, celebrate local history, and enjoy accessible cultural experiences. They strengthen the ties between residents and visitors, making art an integral part of the community’s fabric.
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Public Art and Community Involvement
In South Walton, art isn't just something to admire - it's a way to bring people together. Local initiatives weave creativity into the fabric of the community, using public art to connect residents, visitors, and artists. Through events and collaborative projects, artistic expression flourishes with the community's enthusiastic support.
Arts Events and Festivals
South Walton's art events are more than just showcases - they're immersive experiences that invite everyone to join in. These gatherings allow attendees to meet local artists, explore a variety of artworks, and even try their hand at creative activities. From gallery walks to outdoor art installations, these events ensure that art remains accessible and engaging for all.
Such events also create opportunities for collaboration, sparking connections that strengthen the local art scene.
Working with Local Artists
The art community in South Walton thrives on partnerships between artists, organizations, and residents. Local groups support artists through residencies, workshops, and mentorship programs, offering tools and guidance to nurture their craft. Community input plays a key role in shaping new public art projects, ensuring they resonate with those who experience them.
Local businesses also play a vital part, contributing materials, hosting events, and providing spaces to display artwork. Together, these efforts not only enhance the area's artistic environment but also foster a sense of unity and well-being within the community.
Economic and Tourism Impact of Public Art
Public art plays a vital role in South Walton's economy, drawing visitors who are eager to explore more than just its beaches. This influx of art lovers creates opportunities for local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, shops, and service providers.
Drawing Art-Focused Tourists
Art installations are a magnet for visitors planning multi-day stays to experience South Walton's unique mix of coastal scenery and artistic expression. A prime example is the Underwater Museum of Art, a celebrated landmark that attracts diving enthusiasts and eco-tourists. These visitors often book with local dive operators and nearby accommodations, directly benefiting the local economy.
Travelers looking for meaningful experiences are also drawn to South Walton's galleries, artist studios, and public art displays. The visual appeal of these artworks frequently inspires visitors to share their experiences on social media, generating organic buzz and showcasing the destination to an even broader audience.
Supporting Local Businesses
Public art doesn’t just beautify spaces - it actively supports nearby businesses. Murals, sculptures, and other installations naturally draw people into surrounding areas, increasing foot traffic to shops, cafes, and galleries.
Local hospitality providers have tailored their offerings to cater to art lovers. Hotels may feature art-themed packages, restaurants often showcase works by local artists, and tour operators craft itineraries that highlight the region's creative attractions. These visitors, who tend to stay longer, boost the economy by dining out frequently, engaging in local activities, and supporting a variety of businesses.
This growing interest in public art has also spurred demand for detailed, locally curated resources to help visitors explore South Walton's creative scene.
Resources for Art Enthusiasts
Art lovers visiting South Walton can rely on digital guides to navigate the area's vibrant cultural offerings. For instance, sowal.co serves as a go-to resource, offering details about public art installations, artist profiles, and upcoming events.
These guides go beyond simple listings - they provide curated itineraries and interactive maps that enhance the visitor experience. For those considering a longer stay or even relocation, resources like sowal.co highlight the area's year-round cultural calendar, demonstrating how deeply art and creativity are woven into everyday life in South Walton.
Conclusion: Public Art's Lasting Impact in South Walton
Public art weaves together South Walton's identity, economy, and sense of community. From the awe-inspiring Underwater Museum of Art to the colorful murals brightening public spaces, these creative works have reshaped how both locals and visitors connect with this coastal area.
Take the Inlet Beach Pedestrian Underpass, for example. Featuring pieces by artists like Francisco Adaro, Katherine Boggs, and Sarah Page, this project turns a practical walkway into a shared space of inspiration and connection. It’s a clear example of how art can elevate the ordinary into something meaningful.
Beyond aesthetics, public art sparks conversations, creates shareable moments, and leaves lasting impressions. It’s also a major driver for tourism, drawing visitors who fuel the local economy by staying in nearby accommodations, dining at local restaurants, and exploring cultural tours. Resources like sowal.co make it easier for visitors to discover South Walton's artistic gems with curated guides and itineraries.
Perhaps most importantly, public art fosters a sense of belonging. These works serve as landmarks that instill pride and bring people together, bridging generational gaps. The process of creating public art - inviting community input, selecting artists, and unveiling the final pieces - has become a powerful way to engage and unite the community.
FAQs
What role does the Underwater Museum of Art play in supporting marine life in South Walton?
The Underwater Museum of Art in South Walton is doing something extraordinary for marine life: transforming beautiful sculptures into artificial reefs. These submerged works of art serve as homes for fish, coral, and other marine creatures, boosting biodiversity and helping to restore balance to an area dominated by sandy seabeds.
This innovative approach combines art with a commitment to protecting the oceans. Not only does it improve marine habitats, but it also sparks conversations about ocean conservation. It’s a creative way to merge ecological care with artistic expression and community pride.
What are some must-see public art pieces in South Walton that reflect its local culture?
South Walton boasts a collection of breathtaking public art that perfectly captures its coastal charm and rich local character. Among the highlights are the Grayt Wall of Art in Grayton Beach, the Butterfly Mural at Modus Gallery, and the Vincent Scully Mural in Seaside. Each piece reflects the lively artistic energy that defines the community.
One particularly striking feature is the series of murals decorating the U.S. Highway 98 pedestrian underpass. Painted by local artists, these ten murals turn an ordinary walkway into a vibrant outdoor gallery. They celebrate South Walton’s heritage and creativity, adding a splash of color to the landscape. These artworks not only beautify the area but also stand as cultural touchpoints, offering visitors a meaningful way to connect with the spirit of the community.
How does public art influence South Walton’s culture, economy, and tourism?
Public art is a cornerstone of South Walton’s identity, turning ordinary spaces into lively, engaging destinations. Whether it’s murals, sculptures, or other creative installations, these works of art give the area a distinct character that speaks to both locals and visitors. They help build a sense of community pride and connection, making the area feel special and welcoming.
But the impact of public art goes beyond just aesthetics and community spirit - it’s also a powerful driver for the local economy and tourism. These installations attract visitors, encourage them to stay longer, and bring more business to local shops and restaurants. Tourism has poured billions into Walton County’s economy in recent years, and public art plays a big role in creating those unforgettable moments that make people want to return.
