Standing between The Coca-Cola Company and Georgia Institute of Technology, the mural stretches across both sides of the North Avenue Tunnel and is now one of the most visible public art installations tied to Atlanta’s World Cup preparations.
Created by artist Liliana Penagos, the project is part of Atlanta’s broader $5 million “Bridges, Tunnels and Walls” initiative — a citywide effort bringing large-scale murals and public art installations to corridors across Atlanta ahead of the world’s biggest sporting event.
Mayor Andre Dickens joined Coca-Cola, Keep America Beautiful, Keep Atlanta Beautiful Commission, and Living Walls for the ribbon cutting Wednesday.
“Tomorrow marks five days until Atlanta hosts its first FIFA World Cup 2026 match,” Dickens said during remarks at the event. “For years, we’ve been preparing for this moment.”
The mural itself captures scenes deeply tied to Atlanta’s identity — the skyline, green space, sports culture, music, food, student life, and neighborhoods — while incorporating World Cup energy and Coca-Cola’s longtime connection to the city.
More than 250 Coca-Cola employees helped complete portions of the artwork during Earth Week earlier this spring using a large-scale paint-by-number installation method. City leaders said it was the first mural project of this size in Atlanta to use mural cloth installation and production techniques.
The unveiling also highlighted how Atlanta’s FIFA preparations are extending beyond stadiums and transportation projects into public spaces and neighborhood corridors residents see every day.
“And some of their first impressions of Atlanta will happen right here on North Avenue,” Dickens said. “At one of the busiest corridors in our city.”
As FIFA visitors begin arriving in Atlanta, the city continues rolling out visible improvements tied to beautification, mobility, arts, culture, and infrastructure — all part of a broader effort to showcase Atlanta to a global audience during the tournament.
The mural now serves as both a public art landmark and a symbol of the city’s growing excitement as Atlanta prepares to welcome the world.
