Public Art in Central Alabama - Wetumpka, Union Springs, Oxford, Northport

Last Updated 4/22/2025 • Posted in Wetumpka, Stories, AL Central, Art

WETUMPKA

Tim Burton fans might know Wetumpka as a primary film location for the film “Big Fish.” The town honors its film history in many ways, including through art. This 7-foot-long catfish made from hubcaps sits in downtown Wetumpka, welcoming visitors to the town’s charming streets. This catfish is quite a unique piece created by artist Brett Jakel, who told al.com he has an astonishing amount of hubcaps in his garage (like, thousands) that he uses to make art. When you visit this piece, try to see how many nods to the film you can find in town!

UNION SPRINGS

As you drive through Union Springs, you’ll see a bird dog, strong and pointing, memorialized in the middle of downtown. Union Springs is known as the “Bird Dog Field Trial Capital of the World.” The field trials have shaped Union Springs and Bullock County since the 1870s when the trials first started drawing competitors to the heart of the Black Belt. The town still holds the largest and most prestigious amateur bird dog field trials every February. When you visit this handsome sculpture, be sure to also take a stroll around this historic town that oozes southern charm. If it’s a particularly sunny day, be sure to take a reprieve from the summer heat and sit in a rocking chair in front of the Tourism Council Office.

OXFORD

Now this is one rad dude. Mellow Mushroom in Oxford is home to a friendly pizza giant that welcomes everyone driving down I-20. Made from scrap metal, the sculpture is over 20 feet tall! This southern-born chain is known for its unique and delicious pizza and its whimsical “hippie” décor, and this sculpture fits right in. It’s a must-stop for a selfie and a mouth-watering bite to eat.