In our Mural Spotlight series, we take a look at some of the creative new murals that have popped up around Jacksonville’s urban core in recent years. (Know of a mural we should feature? Email your ideas to editor@thecoastal.com)
Most of Jacksonville’s murals can be seen from the ground, but thanks to artist Jason Tetlak, there’s now a local mural that can be seen from a much taller perspective as well.
Tetlak recently unveiled his newest mural atop Riverside Park Place at 751 Oak Street in Riverside. The project covers all four sides of the bulkhead on the six-story building’s roof; it depicts colorful scenes of local wildlife and the St. Johns River ecosystem, with “JAX FLORIDA” printed in large letters.
“Bright colors have a way of affecting people in a positive way,” said Tetlak, “and I hope that putting an eye-catching design in an unusual place like a rooftop will add a moment of happiness – something memorable on a long, boring travel day.”
The locally-based mural artist, best known for his Beastie Boys-themed mural in nearby Brooklyn as well as his Murray Hill project featuring a depiction of Bill Murray, wanted to create something that would welcome travelers passing through on I-95 to the city’s core. In addition to vehicle traffic, the mural will soon be visible to walkers, bicyclists, and others utilizing the multi-use path that is currently under construction along the bridge.
“The space is right next to the interstate, so I think it will help announce the fact that Jacksonville is a bright, fun city that supports public art,” Tetlak explained. “And maybe they’ll think to themselves, ‘Hey, maybe we should stop and explore.’”
Next time you’re crossing the Fuller Warren Bridge, be sure to look for Tetlak’s new mural – and for more of his work, check out his Instagram page (@jasontetlak).
