Street Art: Abilene & Clyde, Texas USA

Maria De Jesus Chapa-Berry
Jul 16
2 min read

Updated: Jul 26

I was living out in West Texas for about five years before returning to Houston, where I was born and raised. There aren't a lot of murals out in this region of Texas which is so unfortunate. I saw more street art on the trains that passed through Clyde and Abilene than on the streets. However, I did capture some of the ones that were around. I couldn't upload all of my captures as they are on my cloud backup as I've had to clear storage on my laptop several times over for all of my art and videos. But first, here are some facts about Street Art Murals and a poetic statement about street art murals and what they represent to me, to us, and to our communities.

Facts About Street Art Murals:

Public Canvas: Street art murals transform mundane public spaces into open-air galleries, making art accessible to everyone, regardless of their ability to visit traditional art institutions.
Diverse Styles and Techniques: Murals encompass a vast range of artistic styles, from realistic portraiture and abstract designs to graffiti-inspired lettering and whimsical illustrations. Artists utilize various techniques, including spray paint, brushes, stencils, and even mixed media.
Often Collaborative: Many large-scale murals are the result of collaboration between multiple artists, sometimes even involving community members in the design or painting process.
Thematic Depth: Murals frequently address social, political, or environmental issues, serving as powerful visual commentaries. They can celebrate local history, culture, or figures, or simply aim to beautify an area.
Ephemeral Nature: While some murals are preserved and protected, many are inherently temporary. They can be painted over, degrade due to weather, or be removed, reflecting the ever-changing urban landscape. This impermanence can be part of their appeal.
Legality Varies: The legality of street art murals is complex. Some are commissioned works, fully sanctioned by property owners or city councils, while others are created without permission and fall under the category of graffiti, even if artistic.
Economic Impact: Successful mural projects can boost local economies by attracting tourists, increasing foot traffic to businesses, and fostering a sense of community pride.
Evolution from Graffiti: While distinct, street art murals have strong roots in the graffiti movement, adopting its techniques and rebellious spirit but often evolving into more publicly accepted and celebrated forms.