Art and history intertwine in downtown Gulfport. A Main Street facade grant program revitalized the exteriors of nearly 70 buildings, bringing them back to their original glory. Nowhere on the Coast will you find the variety of architectural styles that exist in our Main Street district. The early 1900s architecture makes an amazing backdrop for the modern sculptures and street art. Start your own art walk. Or, come downtown for everything else there is to do and view the art as an added bonus!
The Sailor Lady Median at 13th Street and 25th Avenue Designed by Jim Collins, The Sailor Lady stands outside the U.S. Post Office, which opened in 1910 as the Federal Building.
Sounds of the Elements Corner of 13th Street and 24th Avenue Hanna Jubran designed this sculpture of stainless steel, bronze and brass. It is located across from the historic Carnegie Library, which houses the Gulfport Galleria of Art. Here, you will also find a carving by Marlin Miller, who transformed trees killed by Hurricane Katrina into wonderful works of art.
THE URBAN SCULPTURE GARDEN Corner of 14th Street and 24th Avenue Located across from the historic Hatten Building, the sculpture garden is home to four interesting sculptures. Dance of the Wind I and II were designed by Gus and wife Lina Ocamposilva. Threaded was created by Issac Duncan III. Mississippi Artist Durant Thompson created The Appalachian Balance Beam.
HISTORIC BUILDINGS Located throughout downtown Gulfport are beautiful historic buildings that have been revitalized. Shown below are the U.S. Post Office (formerly the Federal Building), Carnegie Library (which now houses the Gulfport Galleria of Fine Art) and the Hatten Building (formerly the Union Bus Station).
For more information on the history of downtown Gulfport, stop by the Historical Society of Gulfport, located in the Toggery Building, or visit www.historicalsocietyofgulfport.org.