Art 

MEXICO TIPICO has added some color to South Church Street after artist Jose Fernando Vargas recently completed a new mural on the front of the restaurant. The artwork’s design features a large, very detailed and realistic tropical bird, a lady whose face is adorned with the colors of the Mexican flag, and other elements such as flowers and butterflies.

Vargas has created other murals for businesses in the Nashville, Franklin and Woodbine areas, featuring his strikingly detailed, vividly colorful work, often featuring birds and other wildlife.

Drop by Mexico Tipico, 2021 S. Church St., Murfreesboro, for some tacos between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. any day of the week; to view more work from Jose Fernando Vargas, check out his Instagram page @josefernando.v

THE DISCOVERY CENTER AT MURFREE SPRING in Murfreesboro recently named Choctaw artist Sally Wells as the museum’s 2023 artist in residence. Wells is widely known for her traditional beadwork and dressmaking and has dedicated her life and art to promoting and preserving Choctaw culture. Her work has been displayed at the Tennessee Arts Commission gallery.

“We’re thrilled to host such an icon of Native American culture, art and heritage at the museum,” said President and CEO of the Discovery Center Tara MacDougall. Wells was the first master artist chosen to teach in the Tennessee Arts Commission’s Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Program, created to support traditional artists and preserve rare and endangered art forms. Using seed and bugle beads, Wells creates intricate Choctaw collar necklaces, earrings, bracelets and hanging necklaces.

Meet the artist at the Discovery Center on Sundays March 12 and 19 and April 16 and 30, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., when Wells will lead workshops and activities at the museum. Discovery Center is located at 502 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro. For more information, visit explorethedc.org or call 615-890-2300.