A new public art installation in Little Elm honors local soccer player Weston McKennie as he prepares for the World Cup. The large-scale collage is installed at Tinman Social, located at 199 Main St. in the town, which sits approximately 12 miles east of Denton.
Chobani, identified as the official nutrition partner of U.S. Soccer, commissioned the artwork. The company unveiled three similar pieces in the hometowns of different players. The Little Elm installation focuses on McKennie, depicting the moments and people the brand describes as fueling his career.
Artist Michael Mapes created the piece by assembling dozens of images and objects that represent various stages of McKennie’s life. These elements range from his childhood and family history to professional achievements and personal experiences. Mapes spent several months researching the athlete’s background to construct what he calls a visual biography. He stated that his goal is to show who McKennie is beyond his physical appearance, breaking down the individual into a collection of parts that form a whole.
Visitors to the installation have responded to the work. One attendee noted the puzzle-like quality of the composition, appreciating how the separate elements come together. Another visitor remarked on the global reach of the athlete, suggesting that origin does not limit one’s ability to represent the country internationally.
