Downtown Lakeland is blossoming into an open‑air gallery as the Color Wave Walls festival kicks off this week. Founded by local artists Gillian Fazio and Katerina Santos, the biennial event aims to remove financial barriers for creators while delivering world‑class art that is free and accessible to all residents.
Local roots, global reach
Organizers received more than 430 submissions from 21 countries and selected 11 muralists whose work will soon adorn the city’s blank walls. The lineup includes artists from France, Australia, Spain, Canada and the Netherlands, joining Lakeland‑based talent to create a diverse visual tapestry.
Spotlight on Polk County’s representative
Auburndale‑born artist Keith Goodson earned the sole spot to represent Polk County. His mural on West Main Street portrays a young girl contemplating her future and divine purpose beside a young man stepping toward his goals. Goodson explained that the blank pages in his composition symbolize a journal yet to be written, urging viewers to consider the possibilities that lie ahead.
Goodson’s work is sponsored by Southeastern University, which allowed him to focus on inspiring the next generation. “With the mural I’m doing here, SEU sponsored me, so I’m trying to do my due diligence as an artist to inspire the young people to pursue their dreams and goals,” he said.
International artists share their vision
Netherlands‑based Nina Valkhoff described the festival as a “dream come true,” noting her painting of a local spoonbill. “People will see it and say, ‘Whoa, it’s such a main character,’ and they feel a bit differently. Hopefully, by bringing it into the world this way, they see it differently and treat it better,” she said.
Community impact and future plans
Co‑founders Fazio and Santos emphasized that the festival’s purpose extends beyond aesthetics. “If you can see it, you can be it,” Santos said. “We hope that young, talented artists in our community can see these incredible artists painting on our walls and say, ‘I can do that one day.’ That would be an honor.”
The festival will run through Wednesday, with murals continuing to be painted each day. Organizers announced that the next biennial edition is slated for 2028, promising more opportunities for artists and residents alike to engage with public art.
How to experience the murals
All murals are located within walking distance of downtown’s main thoroughfares. Visitors are encouraged to explore the streets, take photos, and share their favorite pieces on social media using the hashtag #LakelandMuralFest. The city’s tourism office expects the event to draw art lovers from across the region, boosting local businesses and reinforcing Lakeland’s reputation as a cultural hub.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
