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seum and Renee Foosaner Education Center. The name Eau
Gallie, roughly translated, means ‘rocky water,’ inspired by
the colorful coquina rocks found in the shallow water. The
historic area is home to numerous museums and homes
listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
In 2010 the Eau Gallie Arts District, or EGAD, was
formed under Florida Main Street guidelines within the
same boundaries of the original plat. With grants from the
City of Melbourne, the State of Florida, local and private
foundations and memberships from the community, the
transformation of the historical community began. The first
mural was painted on the band shell in 2011, depicting the
marine life in the Indian River Lagoon. More followed with
varying subject matter, ranging from hummingbirds to
abstract to hands texturized by thumbprints.
People started coming out to see the massive works of art
and stayed to shop and dine.
Additional murals were added in 2015, and 21 were
added in 2017 during the huge mass mural Anti-Gravity
Project. The project garnered national attention when eight
internationally acclaimed street artists joined local artists
for a 10-day event. Meet-and-greet the artist receptions and
art demonstrations were held along with a festive block
party celebrating the transformation of the community.
INNOVATIVE EVENT
“The excitement generated by the Anti-Gravity Project
elevated us above other downtown initiatives,” says Lisa
Packard, executive director of the Eau Gallie Arts District.
“The event established us as the epicenter of innovation
on the Space Coast. People from all over Florida came to >>
EAU GALLIE ARTS DISTRICT
Lisa Packard, executive director of Eau Gallie Arts District, says the artists
have their fans who come to see their work.
KERRY FIRTH
This mural by Kyle Heinly is one of many in the Eau Gallie Arts District. The artists often post their work on social media.