THEA Cares: New Frames on Franklin – Partnership with FMoPA Brings Veterans’ Stories to Life

The Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) is excited to announce a new installation at our Frames on Franklin public art space, made possible by our partnership with the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts (FMoPA).

This collaboration updates the large-scale frames on the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway wall at 124 S Franklin Street with powerful selections from FMoPA’s “A Soldier’s Lens” exhibition. This installation transforms our urban infrastructure into a gallery that showcases the unique perspectives and experiences of service members.

THEA Cares: Public Art for our Urban Greenway

The Frames on Franklin initiative demonstrates our active commitment to community beautification and revitalization. For years, this location has served as a canvas, replacing dull concrete with vibrant public art that celebrates Tampa’s rich culture and history.

The THEA Cares initiative drives us to enhance the region surrounding our roadways, from developing green spaces to supporting public art. This new collaboration with FMoPA aligns perfectly with our mission to enrich lives and connect communities of our residents and the public. By featuring “A Soldier’s Lens,” we are using our infrastructure to foster appreciation for both the arts and those who serve.

Sharing the View from “A Soldier’s Lens”

The photographs now displayed at Frames on Franklin originate from “A Soldier’s Lens,” an exhibition presented by FMoPA to share the original perspectives of active-duty service members and veterans.

These compelling images capture the diverse realities of military life—from moments of intensity and service to the quiet, everyday routines—as seen through the eyes of those who live it. The project serves to honor the intersection of photographic arts and military service while raising awareness of veterans’ experiences and generating support for veterans’ causes.

We encourage visitors of Downtown Tampa to stop and appreciate this powerful installation. We build these partnerships to integrate art and community, continuously enhancing our city.

Learn more about the exhibition here.