Wyland Sues Over Dallas World Cup Mural Paint-Over for $25M

Iconic Dallas muralist Robert Wyland has filed a $25 million lawsuit against FIFA and related parties after his two‑sided “Ocean Life” mural on the Texas Utilities Building was largely painted over for a FIFA World Cup promotion. Wyland says the destruction violated the Visual Artists Rights Act and occurred without proper notice, consultation, or consent, a claim disputed by others involved. The 164-by-82-foot mural was part of his Whaling Wall series and a longtime city landmark; FIFA said it sought a mural reflecting World Cup energy and unity, while Downtown Dallas Inc. says it did not commission or fund the project. The building owner says Wyland was informed in March, a point Wyland contests. If he wins, the proceeds would go to public art, ocean conservation, and environmental education through the Wyland Foundation.