BILOXI, Miss.—IP Casino Resort Spa and the Biloxi Public Arts Project announced local artist Grace Bennett has been selected to paint a public art mural at IP beginning next week.
IP, in partnership with the Biloxi Public Arts Project, opened up submissions at the end of 2021 for a public art mural at the entrance of IP. Many qualified artists based along the Mississippi Gulf Coast sent in their proposed designs. Submissions were reviewed and ranked by a panel of judges.
“It was a tough decision, as all of the artists brought their unique vision and talents to the project,” said one of the panel judges. “After much deliberation, the winning artist was selected and work is due to begin soon.”
The local artist selected to paint the mural, Grace Bennett, resides in Pass Christian with public art and design exhibitions throughout the state. After 20 years of living on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, she said, “It’s an honor to partner with the IP to create this timeless and celebratory mural.”
The mural is due to start in late June. Interested passers-by can visit the main entrance of IP Casino to watch the public mural come to life or stay up to date on IP’s social media channels.
The goal of this mural project is to attract locals and tourists to IP and the Biloxi Main Street area; create an interactive, social media-worthy moment for visitors; provide a fun, welcoming experience to guests; and offer local artists an opportunity to expand their portfolio and professional development.
“Grace’s design is a beautiful tribute to the heritage of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. I encourage our community and visitors to come throughout the installation and watch for more information on the completion celebration,” said IP’s Project Coordinator, Laura Shoemake.
About IP CASINO RESORT SPA
Winner of the elite AAA Four Diamond award, the IP Casino Resort Spa, a property of Boyd Gaming Corporation (NYSE: BYD), is the Gulf Coast's premier entertainment resort destination. Towering 32 stories over the scenic Back Bay of Biloxi, the IP is home to more than 1,000 elegantly appointed hotel rooms and suites, live entertainment, award-winning restaurants, and a first-class spa. For more information, visit www.ipbiloxi.com and connect on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
An operator of 28 gaming entertainment properties in 10 states, Boyd Gaming is committed to advancing Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) initiatives that positively impact the Company’s stakeholders and communities. Its commitment to being an employer of choice has been recognized by Forbes magazine, which named Boyd Gaming the highest-ranked gaming company in America’s Best Employers for Diversity in 2021, and Nevada’s Best Employers in 2020 and 2021.