Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) —  World-renowned marine artist Wyland is set to visit Gulf Shores this week to unveil a new large-scale public art installation at Surf Style, at the corner of Highway 59 and Beach Boulevard. The visit comes just weeks after national headlines reported the destruction of one of his iconic Whaling Murals in Dallas, reigniting public conversations about protecting public art. Angela Chaffins of Surf Style announced the partnership to the Gulf Shores City Council and invited local artists, educators, and residents to attend. The event is free and open to the public.

The public meet-and-greet and unveiling are scheduled for Saturday, June 20, 2026, from noon to 2 p.m. at Surf Style Gulf Shores, 102 E. Beach Boulevard, Gulf Shores, AL 36542. Guests will have the opportunity to meet Wyland in person and receive autographs. The installation, inspired by Wyland's celebrated "Blue Ballet" artwork, features manta rays, vibrant coral reefs, and marine life. The artwork is intended to serve as a lasting public art landmark and community gift that promotes awareness of marine ecosystem protection.

Robert Wyland, known legally as Wyland, has spent more than four decades creating large-scale public art installations worldwide. Born in Detroit in 1956, he had a turning point during a 1971 family vacation to Laguna Beach, California, where he saw gray whales breaching during their annual migration. He painted his first whale mural on a building in Laguna Beach in 1981 and went on to complete 100 Whaling Murals worldwide, finishing with "Hands Across the Oceans" in Beijing in 2008.

According to Surf Style, Wyland's murals are seen by an estimated one billion people each year. His Gulf Shores visit also offers an opportunity to meet with community leaders, educators, local artists, and conservation advocates. During the event, attendees can explore Surf Style's exclusive Wyland Collection, featuring apparel, waterproof bags, souvenirs, and graphic tees showcasing his marine-inspired artwork.

The Surf Style–Wyland partnership began with the preservation of one of the artist's historic murals in Marathon, Florida, according to a press release. Surf Style President Avi Ovaknin said the company believes marine conservation is essential to protecting the planet for future generations. The Wyland Collection supports the Wyland Foundation's mission to safeguard marine life and advance ocean conservation initiatives. Proceeds from the collection benefit the foundation's environmental awareness programs.