Once swimming freely across the side of the Broderick Tower, Wyland’s iconic whale mural a symbol of nature, public art, and Detroit pride has now been caged behind a massive ad banner. Painted in 1997 as part of Wyland’s “Whaling Walls” series, it was meant to inspire awe and conservation. 

ONE DOLLAR FROM EVERY PURCHASE WILL GO TO THE WYLAND FOUNDATION.

The Wyland Foundation, founded by marine life artist Robert Wyland in 1993, is dedicated to promoting ocean conservation, clean water awareness, and environmental education through public art and community programs. The foundation has helped inspire millions through its famous “Whaling Walls” murals, national art contests, and the annual National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation. Its mission is rooted in the belief that art and education can drive meaningful change for the planet’s water and wildlife.

Even baseball has entered the chat.
Ben Verlander recently went viral after posting side-by-side photos of the mural and the ad from Comerica Park, declaring:

“The Detroit Tigers are the best team in the American League and the whales should be able to watch. Free the whales at last.”

This tee is your rally cry.

With a mini whale chest print up front and a full-back graphic of the mural obscured by downtown's skyline and advertising, this shirt lets you wear your protest with pride. It's bold. It's cheeky. It’s pure Detroit.

Perfect for:

• Tigers fans who believe all creatures deserve a view of Comerica

• Public art defenders tired of seeing culture covered in commercials

• Detroiters who love their city and aren’t afraid to shout it (stylishly)

Wear it to the game. Wear it in the streets. Wear it until the whale sees sunlight again. 

Free the whale. Free the art. Long live the mural.

If you’re looking for a thick, structured tee that’s also super soft and breathable—look no further! The unisex garment-dyed heavyweight t-shirt ticks all the boxes and is made of 100% ring-spun cotton. The regular t-shirt style will complement most looks and fit you to a tee.

• 100% ring-spun cotton
• Fabric weight: 6.1 oz/yd² (206.8 g/m²)
• Garment-dyed
• Relaxed fit
• 7/8″ double-needle topstitched collar
• Twill-taped neck and shoulders for extra durability
• Double-needle armhole, sleeve, and bottom hems
• Blank product sourced from Honduras

This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!

Size guide