A new art installation in Little Elm is honoring local soccer player Weston McKennie as he prepares for the World Cup. The artwork, a large-scale collage, was commissioned by Chobani, which serves as the official nutrition partner for U.S. Soccer. This piece is one of three similar installations the company has unveiled in the hometowns of its featured athletes.
The collage is displayed at Tinman Social, located at 199 Main St. The installation aims to highlight the people and experiences that McKennie credits for his success. According to the company, the project celebrates the moments that "fed his dream" throughout his career.
Artist Michael Mapes created the portrait by assembling dozens of images and objects that represent various chapters of McKennie’s life. These elements range from his childhood and family history to significant career milestones and personal experiences. Mapes spent several months researching McKennie’s background to construct what he describes as a visual biography.
Mapes explained that his artistic approach involves investigating the visual biography of subjects by breaking them down and re-representing them as a collection of parts that form a whole. He stated that the goal was to help viewers understand who McKennie is as a person, rather than just recognizing his appearance.
Visitors to the installation have responded positively to the work. One attendee noted how the piece functions like a puzzle, allowing viewers to see how different aspects of McKennie’s life fit together. Another visitor remarked on the global representation possible regardless of one’s origins.
