City of Gainesville to restore public mural by Florida Highwaymen Artist Al Black

Press release from the City of Gainesville

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The City of Gainesville Cultural Affairs Division will temporarily remove and restore a public art mural created by late Florida Highwaymen artist Al Black to preserve the artwork for future enjoyment.

Commissioned by the City in 2022, the landscape mural is installed at the corner of Main Street and Northeast Sixth Avenue. The final day for the public to view the mural at its current location will be Sunday, July 12.

After nearly four years of continuous exposure to the elements, the mural has deteriorated and will be carefully removed for professional restoration. The artwork will be methodically restored to preserve the artistic vision of the artist.

“We are committed to preserving the City’s public art collection for future generations,” said Cultural Affairs Manager Carol Velasques. “This restoration reflects our ongoing stewardship of the community’s cultural assets and our dedication to honoring the legacy of one of Florida’s most celebrated artists.”

Following restoration, the City’s public art team will identify a new permanent location that provides greater protection from the elements while maintaining public accessibility. Relocating the mural to a more suitable environment will help preserve the artwork and ensure the public is able to enjoy this piece of Florida’s artistic heritage.