This week, crews began covering portions of the downtown mural. World Cup organizers have spoken of permission granted, but a dissenting story is emerging.
DALLAS, Texas — A well-known downtown Dallas mural created by marine life artist Wyland is being painted over as part of a new project tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, sparking backlash from the artist and some residents who say a piece of the city’s history is disappearing.
The mural, known as “Whaling Wall 82,” has covered the side of the former Texas Utilities building facing Akard Street for nearly 30 years.
This week, crews began covering portions of the mural with new artwork connected to the upcoming World Cup.
“I couldn’t believe it because I’ve always been a big fan of this,” Dallas resident Ed Smith said.
Smith visited the site after learning the mural was being replaced.
“I’m just really heartbroken,” he said. “That’s why I had to come down here and take a photograph just to make it believable to me.”
Wyland, who created the mural, said he was never contacted before work began.
“We have a lot of walls,” Wyland said. “And you’re going to paint over mine?”
The artist said he first learned about the changes after someone sent him a photo of the work underway.
“You know they’re telling people we reached out to Wyland, we reached out to the Wyland Foundation, they did no such thing,” he said.
Wyland called the decision “really disrespectful on every level.”
WFAA reached out to the City of Dallas and was directed to the North Texas FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee.
In a statement, organizers said “The mural currently being installed celebrates and builds excitement for the upcoming World Cup 2026. The project is being completed in partnership with the North Texas FWC Organizing Committee and Slate Asset Management, who owns the building.”
“We recognize the cultural and historical significance of Robert Wyland’s Whaling Wall 82,” the organizers continued. “With great respect for Wyland’s legacy, a portion of the original mural will remain preserved as a tribute to its lasting impact on the city.
We look forward to unveiling a new piece that captures this current historical moment and reflects the energy, unity, and global spirit surrounding the World Cup 2026 this summer.”
Wyland said the mural is protected under the federal Visual Artists Rights Act and said he plans to pursue legal action.
Smith said the situation reflects a larger issue about preserving public art.
“I just feel like they have no respect for art,” he said. The new mural is expected to be completed ahead of World Cup-related events in North Texas.