The mural shows Aaron flying his signature yellow plane, wings level against a clear, open sky. His likeness reflects the era of his tours in the 1990s — styled to match the tour T‑shirts he sold then. A visible palm tree tattoo on his forearm is included as a personal detail and signature touch.

Patriotic elements are integrated with restraint and respect: subtle red, white, and blue accents in the plane’s trim, a soft flag motif carried in the sky behind him, and warm, golden light to evoke both pride and nostalgia.

Placement and scale are tailored for Smithville visibility. The local community can walk through this dedicated alley and stop and take photos in front of this mural, which celebrates Aaron as a local well-known figure. The figure and plane are painted at a scale that reads clearly from the street, while background elements remain simplified, so the central image remains strong at a distance. Colors are vibrant but durable, selected for outdoor longevity and legibility under varying daylight.

I painted some of the higher detailed elements on a material known in the art world as Parachute Cloth, or Polytab. This material is strong and durable. It allows the artist to paint in studio and then be attached to the wall to be enjoyed for years. Finishes include UV-resistant topcoat and weatherproof primers to protect the mural through seasons in Middle Tennessee.

This mural honors Aaron Tippin’s work supporting soldiers in Iraq, celebrates his enduring connection to aviation and teaching, and personalizes the piece with recognizable details — his tour-era look and the palm tree tattoo — so the community recognizes both the man and his story.