CRA approves Michael Kulick mural for north pier restroom

The Jacksonville Beach Community Redevelopment Agency voted to approve a mural by Atlantic Beach artist Michael Kulick for the north pier restroom, following a recommendation from the public art advisory committee that reviewed 21 submissions and selected 12 that met the local preference.

The decision matters because the mural will be painted on the restroom at the north end of the Pure parking lot and is intended to reflect local beach themes; the art committee said the submission was the unanimous top choice. Taylor (CRA staff) told the board the artist’s proposal, titled "Brought Together by Salt and Sky," incorporates sun and dunes, the surf forest, vibrant sea and coastal hammock transitions and will be applied across the building elevations.

Michael Kulick’s design was described as intentionally abstract and not intended as a formal photo opportunity on the north elevation; staff said they discussed paint durability and whether doors could be painted given wood and finish constraints. Taylor explained maintenance planning with parks and maintenance and said, "If they don't get painted with the mural, they will be painted the same flat background color as the mural, so it will blend in." The board discussed protective coatings and a one‑year repair clause: staff said artists typically leave leftover paint swatches and that the CRA and artist handle significant repairs during an initial warranty period.

The public art advisory committee reported the selection process was swift and unanimous: the committee reviewed 21 submissions, 12 met the local definition, and the chosen artist was every member’s top pick. Board members asked about timing and maintenance; staff said the artist and parks team were coordinating to achieve a substantial completion visible by the July 4 weekend, with a tentative commencement date in early June. The board approved the mural by roll call vote: Tiffany Tallcott — yes; Thad Mosley — yes; Gary Patel — yes; Megan Edwards — yes; Kevin Myers — yes. Taylor indicated the mural will also go to City Council as part of the permitting/approval process.

The mural approval included direction to coordinate final exterior work and painting of doors only if feasible for longevity; no additional funding action was recorded at the CRA meeting. The motion to approve the mural passed by roll call.