Creativity Around Every Corner: Explore Walton County’s Outdoor Art and Murals

Art galleries can be found throughout the destination, but let’s take a step outside the gallery and see where you can enjoy some of the County’s most popular outdoor art and murals.

The first stop takes you to the corner of Garfield Drive and Hotz Avenue in Grayton Beach, right across the street from the iconic Red Bar.

Grayt Wall of Art – Grayton Beach

The moment you step foot in Grayton Beach, you can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of community and creativity. Musicians and artists have long called this funky beach neighborhood home, so it should come as no surprise that an everyday fence has become a must-see attraction. The Grayt Wall of Art, which features a variety of works from local artists, was created to inspire both visitors and locals alike. From cacti and flip-flops to American flags and sea life, this outdoor art gallery is continually adding new pieces, so be sure to stop by each time you visit!

You can easily flutter down to the next stop by bike.

Butterfly Mural – Modus Gallery, Grayton Beach 

The Shops of Grayton are filled with art studios, including The Shard Shop and former South Walton Artist of the Year Andy Saczynski, as well as photographer and South Walton local Chandler Williams, the man behind Modus Photography. Before exploring Williams’ pieces, snap a photo of your own in front of the Grayton Butterfly. Looking for more must-see spots in this area? Grab a cup of coffee at Black Bear Bread Co. and explore the Dog Wall, featuring local four-legged friends.

Swing by Seaside next to check out a larger-than-life mural.

Vincent Scully Mural – Seaside

Known as the Father of New Urbanism, Vincent Scully was a world-renowned architect and professor to the creators of Seaside. Artist Andrew Pisacane, an urban artist from New York City, created this masterpiece that can be seen in the heart of Seaside. The mural is the perfect place for visitors to document their trip to Seaside, which just so happens to be the birthplace of New Urbanism in South Walton. In the summertime, the green will be filled with parked bicycles and visitors enjoying this piece of history.

You’ll find your next stop right down 30A. 

Rosemary Beach Sculpture Exhibition – Rosemary Beach

Recognized by Architectural Digest as one of the Most Beautiful Main Streets Across America, Rosemary Beach has more than European-inspired homes and charming courtyards for visitors to enjoy. The Rosemary Beach Sculpture Exhibition (RBSE), a biennial juried art show, shares contemporary outdoor sculptures throughout this beach neighborhood. A staple to visit along this trail of art is the “Blue Dog” sculpture, a piece by late artist George Rodrigue that's located on Rosemary Beach's Eastern Green.

Architecture and Sculptures – Alys Beach

Alys Beach is a work of art on its own – pulling inspiration from the Mediterranean and Bermuda, all with the gracious character of courtyard living. The iconic, steepled butteries along 30A mark your arrival, while the white stucco walls and color-filled courtyards that fill this beach neighborhood make it a picture-perfect escape. As you explore the grounds of Alys Beach, you will find various sculptures, including the Turtle Bale, Wooden Horse, Tänzerin and the newest addition, Recline in Blue.

"It's All Connected" – DeFuniak Springs

Your final stop takes you just north of the Choctawhatchee Bay. Created by Nashville-based artist Nathan Brown, this stunningly colorful mural transformed the 75- x 20-foot eastern wall of the CCB Community Bank. It was one of the first murals in town that wasn’t based on a history motif. Instead, the colorful work pays homage to the area’s vibrant natural beauty by incorporating native plants, fish and animals – all centered on a perfect circle that speaks to Lake DeFuniak.

Whether you’re exploring our communities for hidden outdoor gems or the gallery scene is more your style, Walton County has a wide variety of opportunities to explore the arts. For more information about the local art scene, click here.