A large-scale art installation honoring U.S. soccer player Weston McKennie has been unveiled in Little Elm. The piece, created by artist Michael Mapes, is a collage that depicts the athlete’s journey from his North Texas roots to the international stage. The artwork is currently displayed at Tinman Social, located at 199 Main St., in Little Elm.
The installation was commissioned by Chobani, which serves as the official nutrition partner for U.S. Soccer. The company unveiled three similar pieces in the hometowns of different players. Chobani stated that the artwork is designed to celebrate the individuals and experiences that supported McKennie’s career. The collage is constructed from dozens of images and objects that represent various chapters of his life, including his childhood, family, and professional milestones.
Mapes spent several months researching McKennie’s history before assembling the portrait. He described the project as a visual biography that breaks down a person into a collection of parts to form a whole. The artist noted that the goal was to help viewers understand who McKennie is, rather than just what he looks like.
Visitors to the installation have responded positively to the work. One attendee described the piece as a puzzle-like collection of moments. Another visitor remarked on the global representation of athletes regardless of their origins. The installation aims to celebrate McKennie’s background while inspiring local youth to pursue similar athletic paths.
