As the 2022 FIFA World Cup concludes, the Deep Ellum neighborhood in Dallas offers a vibrant, lasting tribute to the international tournament that brought global attention to the city this summer. Eight murals depicting the countries that played at Dallas Stadium have been installed throughout the arts district, reflecting the heritage, culture, and athletic spirit of the participating nations.
The murals include representations of Austria, Argentina, Croatia, England, Japan, Jordan, the Netherlands, and Sweden. Each mural incorporates national flags, notable soccer players, cultural symbols, and phrases connected to the respective countries.
These public artworks form part of Deep Ellum’s new initiative to celebrate its historic identity as a cultural crossroads, honoring the immigrant communities that have shaped the neighborhood’s business and social fabric over time.
Visitors interested in exploring the series can start with the Japan mural located at the Ace parking lot at 2630 Elm Street. Painted by Dallas artist Hatziel Flores, the piece features players Kaoru Mitoma and Daichi Kamada framed by cherry blossoms and a soccer ball, symbolizing both nature and sport.
Nearby, at 2708 Elm Street, artist Isaac Daniel Davies, known as IZK, created the England mural. It prominently displays England’s St. George’s Cross and a blue dragon, blending national iconography with artistic interpretation.
At the corner of Elm and Crowdus streets, the Argentina mural by Dallas-based artist Jose May, or Joe Skilz, highlights the Argentina national team crest alongside legendary player Lionel Messi. The mural also features the phrases “Vamos Argentina!” and “Con Toda La Fuerza,” expressing enthusiasm and strength.
Further along, the 2626 Main Street parking lot hosts two works: the Jordan mural by Pleasant Grove resident Isabella Mireles (Mesbelle), which depicts Jordanian player Musa Al-Tamami, and the adjacent Croatia mural by Marissa Caggiano. Caggiano’s work showcases Croatian midfielder Luka Modric, the national flag, and a map of Croatia.
On South Crowdus Street, visitors will find the Austria and Sweden murals. Jerod Davies, also known as DTOX, painted the Austria mural at 2727 Canton Street, featuring the Austrian coat of arms with its distinctive black eagle and red-and-white shield. Nearby, Romanian-born artist Dan Colcer’s Sweden mural adorns the back corner of Life in Deep Ellum, portraying goalkeeper Kristoffer Nordfeldt in action against the backdrop of the Swedish flag.
The final mural honors the Netherlands and can be seen at 3000 Commerce Street on the wall of Deep Vellum Books. Artist Reuben Cheatmen’s portrayal of Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk completes the series.
Together, these murals create a colorful walking tour that celebrates Dallas’s role as a host city in the World Cup and honors the diverse international community that contributes to Deep Ellum’s rich cultural tapestry.