Christopher Stebly’s mural has once again been installed in Marshall Park in Ocean Springs.
The unveiling, which took place on July 15, was a celebration of community and a city that never hides its love of art. The new, three-panel mural off Washington Street is now permanently displayed across from the bandstand gazebo after Stebly’s original mural was removed in 2017 due to deterioration.
Stebly, grandson of the great Walter Anderson, began painting the new mural in 2019 with three themes in mind – peace, respect, and education.
“This mural, this project is a reminder that without proper education, respect for others, and our environment, we can never have peace on this Earth. Teaching our youth the importance of kindness, compassion, and empathy is imperative,” Stebly explained. “I made this mural as a daily reminder for everyone.”
Also in attendance were Ocean Springs Mayor Kenny Holloway, State Rep. Hank Zuber, and Historic Ocean Springs Association (HOSA) President Melanie Allen. HOSA, founded in 1988 with the mission of preserving, enhancing, and promoting the city, played a leading role in the creation and installation of this mural.
The installation and housing for the mural was designed and built by Tall Architects of Ocean Springs. Donations for upkeep are always welcome and can be made here.
