Public Art in Houston: A City’s Vibrant Expression
Houston’s public art scene has experienced significant growth, thanks to the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs. In 2024, the city added nine new site-specific commissioned artworks, including pieces at the Montrose Library and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). The city also partnered with Midtown and Bloomberg Philanthropies for an upcoming public art exhibition on homelessness. With over 400 Mini Murals and 40 more in the works, there’s no shortage of vibrant art to explore.
Iconic Murals and Sculptures
Houston’s public art scene is full of unique and thought-provoking pieces. Some of the most notable include:
Greetings from Houston by Daniel Anguilu
Located in the Heights, this mural is a must-see. It features an eclectic mix of Houston icons, including an oil rig, cowboy cacti, a mixtape, and a spaceship. Visitors can’t resist taking a selfie in front of this picture-perfect postcard. The mural can be found at 3602 White Oak Dr.
Lady Justice by Victor Ash
In downtown Houston, overlooking Remembrance Park, is Victor Ash’s striking portrait of a Black woman dressed as Lady Justice. The mural serves as a stark reminder of the importance of justice and equality. It can be found at 1019 Congress St.
Alief Swarm by Bennie Flores Ansell
The Alief Neighborhood Center is home to this stunning piece, which features over a thousand butterflies made of transparent CNC-cut images of sneakers. The butterflies hang from the ceiling, evoking the nearby butterfly garden. The Alief Swarm can be found at 11903 Bellaire Blvd.
Twilight Epiphany by James Turrell
Located at Rice University, this immersive Skyspace is a beloved piece of public art. The space undergoes a visual transformation six days a week, with LED lights displaying an array of beautiful colors. It also hosts performing arts events, making it a unique and captivating experience. The Skyspace can be found at the Suzanne Deal Booth Centennial Pavilion.
The Dreamcatcher by Jesse Lott
Outside the Sunnyside Health and Multi-Service Center is Jesse Lott’s eye-catching sculpture, The Dreamcatcher. Constructed from wire, glass, and found objects, the sculpture delights the eye with its colorful lights and unique design. It can be found at 4410 Reed Rd.
La Rivière by Aristide Maillol
A reproduction of Maillol’s original sculpture sits outside the Kinder Building’s Café Leonelli at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. The dramatic piece features a naked woman falling sideways into a pool, making it a thought-provoking and striking addition to the city’s public art scene. It can be found at 5500 Main St.
Conclusion
Houston’s public art scene is a vibrant and eclectic expression of the city’s culture and diversity. From iconic murals to thought-provoking sculptures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, taking the time to explore Houston’s public art is an experience you won’t want to miss. With new pieces being added all the time, the city’s public art scene is sure to continue to grow and thrive, making Houston an even more exciting and inspiring place to be.
