The Office of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis's Public Art program focuses on bringing culturally relevant art to communities that may not have access to art in their neighborhoods. Another key component of our public art includes honoring national and local social justice heroes who paved the way for social changes and continue to lead us in our common struggle toward equality.
The Big Art. Bigger Change. project seeks to unite communities through multiple large-scale murals across the heart of Houston, from the Hilton Americas Houston Hotel to the Historic District.
View all of our Downtown Murals.
“60%” highlights the vital connection between women empowerment and water access (United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 5 and 6). Access to water is essential to survival and dignity, yet it’s becoming increasingly scarce. Over 2 billion people lack safe drinking water, and by 2025, nearly two-thirds of the global population could face water stress. Women and girls are particularly affected, spending a collective 200 million hours daily collecting water, often from distant, unreliable sources. This limits their opportunities for education, work, and health. Improving water access frees up time for personal development, boosting their social and economic status.
Created by artist Onur and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), this mural features a young woman floating on water, symbolizing the deep connection between humanity and water. It emphasizes water’s essential role in sustaining life both within us and around us. Flowing lines and calming blues represent the 60% of the human body composed of water, urging care and respect for this fundamental element. The piece also calls for collective responsibility to protect and preserve our water resources, ensuring that everyone—particularly women—has the access they need to thrive.
The piece is part of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in 2025 in downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis. Special thanks to Harris County for donating their wall.
“Empowered Wings” celebrates and gives visibility to people with disabilities, shining a light on their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. It serves as a powerful reminder that people with disabilities are integral members of our society, deserving recognition, respect, and equal access to opportunities—including in sports. This mural aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4, 8, 10, 11, and 17.
Created by renowned artist Insane 51 and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), the mural features Michael, a child from Houston, confidently performing a wheelie in his wheelchair. Dressed in a superhero cape and raising his fist to the sky, Michael is depicted as cool, strong, and unstoppable—even soaring through the air. His image exudes positivity and serves as a beacon of visibility, strength, and limitless potential for people with disabilities. Adding a local touch, a Northern Cardinal—a native bird of Texas—accompanies Michael, symbolizing steadfastness, freedom, and progress. In an exciting twist, the mural comes to life in three dimensions when viewed with 3D glasses, thanks to artist’s signature “Double Exposure 3D” technique.
As Houston prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this mural also underscores the city’s commitment to inclusivity in sports and its vision of “leaving no one behind.” Reflecting the spirit of unity, the mural is part of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in 2025, and the One Big Family mural series, an art loop celebrating Houston’s diversity and pioneering spirit for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
And here’s a fun challenge for soccer fans: the artist has hidden an Easter egg within the mural—can you find it?
The piece was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis. Special thanks to Wyndham for donating their wall and making this inspiring piece possible.
“Climate Resilience” addresses people's vulnerabilities and resilience in the face of climate change, highlighting how its impacts could push 68 million to 135 million people into poverty by 2030, according to the World Bank. In the United States, Houston has the highest number of communities at risk for natural disasters. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has designated 14 disaster resilience zones in Harris County, underscoring the urgent need for action to protect at-risk populations. This mural is inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 13.
This mural, created by artist Amy Sol and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), depicts three friends moving against the current, with various forces pushing back at them. Wind, cloud shapes, and celestial motifs intertwine, symbolizing the challenges of climate change and how it tests their resilience. Each character carries a symbolic item: one holds an empty bowl, another a fruit-bearing branch with contents being blown away, and the third cradles a seedling struggling to grow. The torn, rough areas of their clothing reflect their ongoing struggle and the hardship of food scarcity.
“Messengers of Peace” is about Peace, Love and Inclusivity (United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16 and 10). It honors the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, an iconic figure of nonviolence and wisdom who believed in love as a powerful force for social and collective transformation. Unlike other leaders of the independence movement, Gandhi believed India would gain independence only through a mass movement that included all Indians, rich and poor, Hindu and Muslim. Gandhi influenced civil rights movements around the world including in the USA, where Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. drew heavily from his philosophy.
This mural, created by artist Beau Graff and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), is a profound call for peace and universal harmony. Featuring the portrait of Mahatma Gandhi, it captures the essence of determination in the pursuit of global peace. Beside him, the image of a child embodies innocence, hope, and the boundless potential of future generations. The child reaches toward a white dove in full flight, symbolizing peace, freedom, and the enduring promise of a brighter tomorrow. By bringing Gandhi and the child together, this artwork bridges the past and the future. It reminds us that peace is not just an idea, but an achievable reality, shaped by each individual's actions and commitment to harmony.
The piece is part of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in 2025 in downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis. Special thanks to McIntyre’s Downtown for donating their wall.
"Reverend Lawson," painted by Miss Audrii and curated by Street Art for Mankind, honors the legacy of Rev. William Lawson, a longtime pastor and civil rights leader who played a crucial role in desegregating Houston. Rev. Lawson founded Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in 1962 and served as its pastor for 42 years before retiring in 2004. Known as “Houston’s Pastor,” he remained active in his church and community throughout his life. Lawson joined forces with Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. during the civil rights movement and was the pastor of the "Three Amigos," three Houston faith leaders who united in support of civil rights for more than 50 years. Rev. Lawson is still remembered today as the “gentle giant” and “kind grandfather” who cared deeply for his community.
This contemporary mural serves as a narrative of Rev. Lawson's legacy. He is depicted above his church, alongside his wife, with whom he worked hand in hand. He affectionately called her “Little Red,” symbolized here by the red dress she wears. The groups of children serve as a reminder that the couple fought for their future. The mural also includes portraits of Rev. King (on the right), the "Three Amigos" (on the left), and a nod to Rev. Lawson's passion for cartooning (with the doodle that was part of the first letter he sent back to his wife).
This mural is part of #LegaciesOfChange, a mural series inspired by the power of collective action to build lasting positive change. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis.
“Free Spirit,” painted by Edosa Ogiugo and curated by Street Art for Mankind, celebrates the power of cultural diversity through dance. With over 90 languages spoken, Houston is home to a multitude of ethnicities, reflected in local festivals that highlight music, art, dance, and theater from around the world. It serves as a reminder that diverse perspectives and values enrich collective efforts and help address challenges more effectively.
The mural, depicting Nigerian women dancing, captures the Nigerian artist's signature modern impressionist style on an unprecedented scale. It highlights the free spirit, vibrant energy, and graceful movement of traditional dancers, echoing Edgar Degas’s famous ballerina paintings. This work is especially meaningful in Houston, which has a large population of African descent.
“Protest” painted by Bimbo Adenugba and curated by Street Art for Mankind serves as a vivid manifesto for social and environmental justice. It is inspired by the legacy of civil rights advocates in Houston and their long-standing fight for equality. The mural is a tribute to their collective commitment to building a more inclusive future for all.
The mural depicts a diverse, abstract crowd of protesters carrying signs with quotes linked to advocacy work and signs held by students in the 1960s Texas Southern University protest, which played a pivotal role in the desegregation of Houston, Texas. The style of this mural is inspired by the work of iconic contemporary Ghanaian artist Ablade Glover, particularly his Protest paintings. Glover is renowned for his vibrant artworks that capture the bustling energy of urban streets, and his distinctive technique of palette knife application with thick impasto layers, creating movement and abstraction in crowd scenes. By adopting this style, Bimbo pays homage to Glover’s artistic legacy while amplifying the mural’s powerful message.
The list of signs can be found by scanning the mural with the app Behind The Wall.
“Untitled” is a replica of a John Biggers (1924–2001) painting with the same name. Biggers was an African-American artist based in Houston who was renowned for his social realist murals and symbolic paintings. He was one of the first African-American artists to travel to Africa to study various cultural traditions as part of a UNESCO fellowship in 1957. This experience profoundly influenced his work, and he regarded it as the most significant event of his life. Through rich symbolism, this signature artwork addresses the past, present, and future of Africa’s scattered children.
This mural, created by Alex Arzu and Emmanuel Jarus, and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), depicts a community of Black men, women, and children emerging from a shallow body of water. They represent the thousands of Africans who were forced to move to America, Cuba, Haiti, and Brazil during the Transatlantic Slave Trade, as well as the cultural blending that resulted from it. The two monumental women in the foreground symbolize "Mother Africa." They hold an Akan comb, a traditional African art piece often carved by a husband for his wife during pregnancy, symbolizing good fortune and faith in the future. The child holding the cloth between the women represents the guidance and support of the next generation.
This piece is part of the #JohnBiggersMurals series, which raises awareness of the legacy of this incredible muralist. It is also part of #LegaciesOfChange, a mural series inspired by the power of collective action to build lasting positive change. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, Dr. Alvia Wardlaw and David T. Hales, trustee for Hazel Biggers.
“Greater Sisterhood” is a mural inspired by the global work of the Women of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., whose community impact has been manifested through sisterhood, scholarship, and service for over 100 years. This work symbolizes the eradication of drowning in vulnerable populations, the promotion of women’s wellness, the enrichment of youth, and lifelong education. It serves as an inspiration to always leave the world greater than before. This artwork supports achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 5 and 17.
This mural, created by Ashley Price, aka Pinklomein, and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), depicts three women that represent the diversity of African American women using the artist’s distinctive style. The ribbon imagery depicts the independence and creative freedom that we all aspire to. This piece reminds the viewer to DREAM BIG, and that community service is essential to community progress.
This piece, dedicated July 2024 in downtown Houston, is part of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Houston Downtown Management District, and the leadership of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis. Specials thanks to Houston City Tours for donating its wall.
“From Slavery to Freedom” pays homage to the violence suffered by generations of men and women who were trafficked and enslaved during the transatlantic slave trade. According to the United Nations, the slave trade led to the deportation of more than 15 million people from Africa to the Americas from the 16th to the mid-19th centuries. Behind the figures are millions of human stories, stories of untold suffering and pain, but also stories of bravery, courage, resilience, and determination of enslaved African people who continuously fought for their freedom. This artwork aims to open up conversations about this painful legacy that still impacts us today. It provides a space for Americans to reach beyond themselves to recognize a shared past and build a better, more inclusive future. It supports the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 8.7, 10, and 16.
This mural, created by artists Victor Ash and Bimbo Adenugba and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), depicts American abolitionist Harriet Tubman holding a cotton branch in her right hand with a closed fist. She represents the fight for freedom as she is perhaps the most well-known of all the Underground Railroad's "conductors.” During a ten-year span, she made 19 trips into the South and escorted over 300 enslaved people to freedom. At the bottom, Bimbo painted a second mural featuring a stylized Slave Trade map with a quote from Harriet Tubman. At night, the map shows the underground railroad. The mural is painted on the former cotton exchange building located at 1310 Prairie St.
The piece is part of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in 2024 in downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis.
“Ghana Dancers” is a replica of the eponymous drawing by John Biggers (1924-2001). Biggers was an African American artist based in Houston and world renowned for his social realist murals and symbolic paintings. He was one of the first African American artists to travel to Africa to study different cultural traditions as part of a UNESCO fellowship in 1957. His exposure to various elements of visual arts and culture had a profound effect on his work, leading him to view this trip as the most significant event of his life. This artwork, inspired by his trip with UNESCO, supports inclusive quality education and the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4.
This mural, created by Alex Arzu and Emmanuel Jarus and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features two women dancing, highlighting Biggers’s continued fascination with representing African and African American dance traditions. This painting might depict a community ceremony celebrating the successful harvest of the year’s crops, where dance was a key element. This signature work, with women looking away from the viewer, reflects one of the artist's favorite sayings: “You can tell more about an individual from the back because too often human beings would wear a mask.”
The piece is part of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in 2024 in downtown Houston and of the #johnbiggersmurals world series that raise awareness of the legacy of this incredible muralist, painter, philosopher, and educator. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis and David T. Hales, trustee for Hazel Biggers.
"ICARUS" is a mural about Fast Fashion and responsible consumption (United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12). Fast fashion refers to the mass production of cheap, stylish clothes driven by our consumerist society and exacerbated by the boom of social media. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the average consumer buys 60% more clothing than 15 years ago. Each item is only kept for half as long. The issue is that Fast Fashion creates significant environmental and labor issues and is responsible for 10% of global CO2 emissions each year, according to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
This mural, created by artist JDL and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), is a signature piece from the artist. Inspired by the myth of Icarus, she represents here a proud "fashionista" dressed to impress with all her jewelry and clothes flying too close to the sun and falling from the sky. It is an original allegory of the danger of our excessive consumption and its inevitable consequences on our planet if we continue overlooking it. The model, Floortje Eimers, who posed for the artist, is a renowned ballerina from the Netherlands.
The piece is part of the third series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in March 2024 in downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the Holiday Inn Houston Downtown for donating its wall.
“Aim for Change” is a mural about promoting a peaceful society and reducing all forms of violence, as highlighted in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 16.1. In the U.S., gun violence is a leading cause of premature death, as guns kill more than 38,000 people and cause nearly 85,000 injuries each year. There are divides in the country on how to fix the issue of gun violence, but all sides agree it is essential to reduce mass shootings that plague the nation, from supermarkets to schools. This mural is a tribute to changing the odds, to a world where we mute guns and foster peace.
This mural, created by artist Gonzo247 and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features a signature and colorful contemporary art graffiti piece of the artist. The viewers are invited to decipher the artist's message, written in vintage Wild Style letters of pop colors that say, "Change is certain, Change is OK, Keep an Open Mind, Educate, Evolve, End Gun Violence." Amongst this "assembly" of contemporary letters, the artist has hidden knotted guns inspired by the sculpture from artist Carl Frederk Reutersward that was made after his friend, John Lennon, was murdered and that can be seen today at the United Nations in New York.
The piece is part of the third series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in March 2024 in downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the Holiday Inn Houston Downtown for donating its wall.
"The Houston Collection" is a mural about the butterfly effect, the world's interconnection, highlighting how small decisions can greatly impact people, society, and the planet. It also shows how "a butterfly flapping its wings," or simply the right action at the right place, can make a huge difference. The mural addresses social and environmental issues such as habitat fragmentation and climate change. As such, this mural represents all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.
This mural, created by artist Mantra and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), is a signature piece of the artist. It features eight emblematic butterflies from Texas and Houston showcased in a large entomologist box. These colorful, diverse butterflies are a tribute to the beauty of local nature and biodiversity and serve an educational purpose for the public as these local species are depicted with precision. Their representation in an entomologist box is also a vivid reminder of their fragility to climate change.
The piece is part of the third series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in March 2024 in downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the Harris County Precinct One for donating its wall.
"Birds of No Nation" is a mural about humanity on the move. According to the United Nations, an estimated 281 million people, approximately 3.6% of the world's population, currently live outside their country of origin, compared to 2.8% in 2000 and 2.3 % in 1980. Many migrations are characterized by varying degrees of compulsion as people escape conflict, persecution, large-scale human rights violations, or natural disasters. The artwork is a call to compassion and peace. It supports achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 10.7 and 16.
This mural, created by Afghan artist Shamsia Hassani and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), stages the iconic character of the artist, a strong and independent woman with bold lines, sharp angles, and no visible mouth, sitting on the other side of a broken wall accompanied by birds. Like these birds, she is migrating and looking back with nostalgia. In the background, we can see a city landscape and a tank in the middle of the fields. She is running away from destruction and war. This mural is inspired by the artist's painting series "Birds of No Nations" about Afghans who migrate to other countries, don't have a nationality anymore, and are from nowhere.
The piece is part of the third series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in March 2024 in downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the generous support of Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the Harris County Precinct One for donating its wall.
"Child-Friendly World" is a mural inspired by the nomination of the city of Houston, which in 2024 became the first UNICEF Child-Friendly City in the United States, showcasing Houstonians' active commitment to protecting children's rights. It is an opportunity to reflect on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which serves as a framework for UNICEF's Child-Friendly Cities Initiative and aims to guarantee that children's best interests are always the primary consideration. The artwork supports achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 11, 13 & 16.2.
This mural, created by artist Detour and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), proposes a signature colorful piece featuring a daughter on her father's shoulders. The composition highlights the dad as the caregiver raising up his child and bringing her new perspectives in a secure environment. She is our future, looking at the horizon with hope as she can grow confidently in this child-friendly world.
The piece is part of the third series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in March 2024 in downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District, TotalEnergies, and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the De George At Union Station for donating its wall.
"Soccer Adventurers" is a mural inspired by soccer; the primary professional sport hosted at the Shell Energy Stadium. It is here to remind us of the key teachings and values of sports, such as Equality, Inclusion, and Respect. It is also a tribute to the opportunities unlocked by sports that help break lines, ascend socially, and dream big in Houston and everywhere. The artwork supports achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3, 4, 5, 8,11, 16 and 17.
This mural, created by artist Dragon76 and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features the artist's unique "Manga" and futuristic style. Emerging from the smoke are athletes from different genders and ethnicities coming together in unity around soccer balls. They are dressed in futuristic fighting gear and look to the future with determination. They are smiling, having fun, and ready for their next challenge.
The piece is part of the third series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in March 2024 in downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the Shell Energy Stadium officials for donating their wall.
"City of All Energies" is a mural celebrating Houston as an energetic city, inspired by the unstoppable energy of its welcoming community as much as the energy transition that Houston is leading. For over 100 years, Houston has been considered the energy capital of the world. With newer, cleaner energy initiatives on the rise, Houston is poised to continue with the title by accelerating global solutions for an energy-abundant, low-carbon future. The artwork supports achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 and 17.
Created by the collaboration of two artists, Mr.D 1987 and Romain Froquet, and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), the mural is an abstract and colorful contemporary piece. It features large energetic brushstrokes and splashes of color, with a vertical progression of the color palette implying a switch from past to present, from warm fossil fuel to greener, renewable energies. In its center, the brushstrokes create an "H," as a wink to "H-Town," Houston's nickname. This giant allegory on energy transition is also the fruit of collaborative work between two artists from two different continents. It symbolizes the necessary international cooperation needed to achieve this energy transition goal.
The piece is part of the third series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in March 2024 in downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District, TotalEnergies, and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to Harris County Precinct One for donating its wall.
"Harmony" is a mural that pays tribute to the youth change-makers who are now leading the conversation on climate change around the world and shaking up the status quo. Climate change impacts everyone, but it particularly affects young people. Their health, education, and security -- as well as their future -- are at risk of the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Empowering youth to be green change-makers is necessary to build a livable planet for all in the future. This mural is inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 13.
This mural, created by artist Mr. Super A and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features the famous "Little Red Riding Hood" tale with a twist. In the signature style of the artist, hidden behind the stripes, is an activist girl and green change-maker. She is determined, facing a wolf symbolizing the adult world here. She is carrying an entire ecosystem (bird, bee, and butterfly), opposing the Narcisse flower held by the wolf, inviting him to follow her lead in creating a thriving environment for all. This mural is about changing the narrative for the future of our planet. The Little Red Riding Hood is not scared. She is the superhero of the story.
"Books and Freedom" is a mural about books and their key role in supporting a diversity of opinions, tolerance, and freedom of speech. Books are essential and have always been across cultures and times. They are how knowledge is preserved and shared and act as doorways to connecting us with the diversity of the world around us. Books are fundamental to keeping open dialogues and conversations in an increasingly polarized world. The theme is inspired by the transformation of the Harris County Public Libraries into "Book Sanctuaries" and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 16.10.
This mural, created by artist D*Face and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features the artist's iconic and signature comic book dysfunctional character surrounded by books that have been set on fire and by canceled e-books. Between fiction and reality, this sad woman questions us directly, proposing to reflect on the potential of the unknown and the importance of diverse points of view in books and daily life.
The piece is part of the third series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in March 2024 in downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to Harris County for donating its wall.
“Kids in the Park” highlights how sports can inspire youth and trigger opportunities. It is a tribute to inclusive communities where children, girls and boys, are given equal chances. It is connected to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4, 5, and 11.
This mural, created by Emmanuel Jarus and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features a boy and a girl at Finnigan Park in Fifth Ward, where the mural is located. They are united around sports. The girl is depicted holding a football and the boy a soccer ball to challenge the stereotypes of boys’ and girls’ sports. This mural aims to create a legacy between two major sports events hosted in Houston: the Super Bowl in 2004 that – through the NFL – funded construction of the Finnigan Youth Education Town, and the upcoming 2026 World Cup. It is about playing sports and dreaming big in a nurturing and inspiring environment.
The piece was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of Harris County Precinct One, which donated its wall for the artwork.
“The Return” is a replica of the eponym painting by John Biggers (1924-2001). Biggers was an African-American artist based in Houston and world-renowned for his social realist murals and symbolic paintings. This artwork, featured on the Harris County Juvenile Detention Center, is a bold visual statement that embodies the facility’s commitment to nurturing, guiding, and supporting young individuals on their path to rehabilitation and reintegration into society. It supports the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16.
This mural, created by Alex Arzu and Emmanuel Jarus, and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features a woman as a central figure, standing firmly with hands placed on the children’s shoulders, serving as a representation of guidance and support. Her foot rests upon the back of a turtle, a creature often associated with longevity, endurance, and the slow and steady journey toward a goal. Here, it emphasizes the importance of patience and persistence in personal development and underscores the notion that meaningful change, led by mentors and educators within the facility, takes time.
The piece is part of the third series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in 2024 in downtown Houston and of the #johnbiggersmurals world series that raises awareness on the legacy of this incredible muralist, painter, philosopher, and educator. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of David T. Hales, trustee for Hazel Biggers, and Harris County Precinct One, which donated its wall for the artwork.
“When Tomorrow Comes” sheds light on the importance of giving everyone access to clean air (United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11.6). Every year, 6.7 million people die globally due to exposure to pollution, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In the United States, low-income and communities of color are disproportionately impacted by air pollution, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Harris County is taking bold steps on behalf of our environment and public health by implementing a Climate Action Plan to reduce its emissions by 40% by 2030 and developing a Climate Justice Plan.
This mural, created by artist Bezt and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features a young girl wearing a scarf to protect herself from pollution, represented here by clouds. She is an activist, defending herself against this hostile environment by making a bond with nature in hopes of a brighter future for all. The flowers on her scarf reference native flowers that would grow wild in Houston when nature is free and the air is not polluted.
The piece is part of the third series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in 2024 in downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of Harris County Precinct One, which donated the county’s wall for the artwork.
“Hope of a Greener Future” is an ode to Houston’s flourishing ecosystems, reflecting the crucial role of Green Energies in creating a sustainable future in which technology works in harmony with nature. It supports the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal 7 on “affordable and clean energy” which invites us to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. This 3D mural depicts a future where endangered and fragile species of Houston ecosystems like the ocelot, the Houston toad, the mockingbird, and local flora coexist and thrive alongside windmills, solar panels, hydroelectric wheels, and more generally green energies. This mural was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District, Harris County Precinct One, TotalEnergies, and the City of Houston. Special thanks to the Green Street Houston and Midway for donating their wall.
Mural by Carlos Alberto
“Fight or Flight” is a tribute to the Aplomado Falcon, an endangered species of Texas, to illustrate the effects of Climate Change on our environment. It comes in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13 which invites us all to take immediate action to combat climate change and its impacts. The falcon is flying above the trees towards freedom, rising like a phoenix, spreading its wings… yet, if you look closely you will see it disappearing in the background at the same time recalling its fragile and conditional existence. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District, Harris County Precinct One, TotalEnergies, and the City of Houston. Special thanks to Hilton Americas for donating their wall.
Mural by Sonny Sundancer
“Loving Houston” is a tribute to Houston’s unique outdoor quality of life, its lush greenery, its Buffalo Bayou, and the numerous parks immediately accessible to millions of Houstonians. It comes in support of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal 15 on “’life on land”, which invites us all to protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. Through the profile of a man, we can see a typical Houston ecosystem with Bayou trails, live oaks, billowing clouds, and a mockingbird. This is our legacy to the next generation represented by an Asian American girl leaning on this beautiful yet fragile ecosystem. This mural was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District, Harris County Precinct One, TotalEnergies, and the City of Houston. Special thanks to the Four Seasons Hotel Houston for donating their wall.
Mural by Emily Ding
The Ecosystem Restoration mural by Martin Ron highlights growing trees to restore local ecosystems andtheir functions for people and nature. Trees are essential to the well-being ofcommunities, as they help fulfill our basic needs - breathing fresh air,drinking clean water, and finding relief from the heat. The mural depicts ablack woman’s hand holding a local live oak tree branch that she extends to usas an invitation to do our share in this effort to grow more trees inneighborhoods that need them most and revive our urban ecosystems across theworld.
“Assiduity” is a mural dedicated to essential workers whose critical work has kept the country functioning during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping many of us go through the hardship of the lockdown. This mural, created by artist Smug and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features a Houstonian essential worker, from Guatemala who spent more than 20 years as a janitor in Houston and never stopped working during the pandemic. Overlooking us proudly with his mop, he personifies the idea that there are “no small jobs.” Essential workers are and remain the backbone of our community. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the ownership of the Sam Houston Hotel.
The El Franco Lee Statue, sculptured by artist Chas Fagan, is the centerpiece art in the El Franco Lee Service Plaza, which surrounds the Harris County Jury Assembly Building at 1201 Congress St. The statue, which is behind the jury building on the Franklin Street side, serves as a memorial to the late Commissioner Lee, who passed in 2016 after serving about 30 years in office.
“Elevation” is a mural that pays tribute to the importance of entrepreneurship, small businesses and decent work for all. This mural, created by artist Mr Cenz and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), highlights women’s entrepreneurship. It shows a young African American woman gazing upwards with her head full of ambition, drive and success. Symbols of creative entrepreneurship are coming out of her hair and are drawn in a handwriting style, so that they look like written notes coming from a prolific mind. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to The De George At Union Station for donating their wall.
“Legacy” is a reflection on the essential task of providing a sustainable planet for future generations. This mural, created by Houston-based artist Samson Bimbo Adenugba and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features Mina, a Houstonian Native American girl holding a jar full of fireflies, symbolizing both hope and green energy. She is both our past and future, shining a poetic light on the legacy of Native Americans in the region. In her right hand, she is holding yellow and white roses symbolizing nature, peace, and Texas. In the background, you will find a myriad of symbols and details, like the scale symbolizing justice, the apple and the glass of water pleading for food justice and access to clean water for all.
“Innovation for All” is a mural about access to technology and innovation for all. Bridging the digital divide, promoting sustainable industries, and investing in scientific research and innovation are all important ways to facilitate sustainable development globally. This mural, created by artist w3r3on3 and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), empowers humankind to unlock access to technology for all. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District, TotalEnergies and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the Dhukka Family for donating their wall.
“Empowered” is a mural about advancing women’s rights through economic empowerment. It highlights the work of Houston’s Women’s Commission, which aims to advance equality and equity for women in the City of Houston and focuses on economic parity. This mural, created by artist Adry del Rocio and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features an active, empowered woman breaking “glass ceilings” and obstacles. On her wrist, she has a bracelet with a scale to remind her to keep fighting for more equality, and between the doves, you can also notice a gender equality sign. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District, TotalEnergies and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the Republic Building for donating their wall.
“The Strongest of Us” is a mural about reversing food insecurity in vulnerable communities, especially among single mothers. This mural, created by artist Hera and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), is a tribute to single mothers raising their children and having to face all the hardships in life alone. Yet, the mother stands proud and hopeful, looking into the future. With a crown on his head, the child would like to be a “big guy,” but he still needs mom’s help to lift him up sometimes. Together we are always stronger! The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the Energy Transfer for donating their wall.
“Women’s Freedom of Choice” is a mural that pays tribute to women deprived of their rights and freedom in their own countries. This mural, created by Iranian artists Icy and Sot and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), is the reinterpretation of a worldwide street art masterpiece that made the artists famous in their pledge for Women’s Freedom. It depicts a woman dreaming and imagining her basic right to a freedom of choice while birds fly freely, twirling around her. The piece embodies the spirit of resistance and hope from all oppressed women around the world. The mural is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to Houston Public Works for donating their wall.
“Healthy Aging” is a mural celebrating healthy aging and community solidarity. This mural, created by artist Ernest Zacharevic and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), showcases a grandfather and his grandchild playing on a seesaw. This playful scene emphasizes the importance of intergenerational support, featuring a girl and her grandfather trying to uplift each other. Both from an immigrant background, the characters are also here to reference the unlocking of the American dream among immigrant families and the importance of honoring the elders that open a path for us. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the Mafrige family for donating their wall.
“Reaching up” was created by emerging artist GiselleOviedo , a college student in Fine Arts at the University ofHouston-Downtown (UHD). It features hands holding an arm that is presenting asprouting seedling. The multiple hands are a reference to unity and diversity,while the seedling refers to education and earth protection. The artist wasselected amongst her peers through a contest created in partnership with UHDand a committee of Houston Art Experts decided on the artwork. The piece ispart of the second series of the BigArt. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in DowntownHouston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the HoustonDowntown Management District , the City of Houston and HarrisCounty Precinct One. Special thanks to Zydeco Diner for donatingtheir wall.
“Digital Citizen” is a mural that raises awareness of Cyberbullying. This mural, created by artist Vinie Graffiti and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features the artist’s signature character, a teenager overwhelmed by unpleasant messages she saw on her phone. She is standing here, showing her disapprobation, and questioning us: what are we doing as a society to protect her? The words in her hair invite the viewer to meditate on the cause and to act. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to Bill and Caroline for donating their wall.
“Inexorable” is a mural that supports the LGBTQ community. This mural, created by artist duo Nomad Clan and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), is a powerful representation of the unity and strength within the LGBTQ community, as well as a tribute to those who have fought for LGBTQ rights in the past. It features past and present symbols of cultural solidarity such as the tattoo of the name "The Tumblebugs" as a reference to a group of individuals who fought against the arrest of crossdressers in Houston in 1967. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to Harris County for donating their wall.
“Keep your eye on the road” is a mural about making our roads safer. This mural, created by artist MrD 1987 and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), presents a mystical goddess warning us to be vigilant on the road or there may be consequences. It reflects on the good and bad decisions we make on the road, with two different prospects depending on which side of the road we choose. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District, TotalEnergies and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to Verde Communities LLC for donating their wall.
“Illumination” is a mural highlighting the importance of breaking the taboo around mental health. This mural, created by artist Emmanuel Jarus and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), focuses on youth. By presenting a serene figure (a local teenager) in a moment of quiet introspection, the artwork invites viewers to delve deeper into the complexities and challenges of mental well-being. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to New Hope Housing for donating their wall.
“Unity” is a mural celebrating the importance of unity and inclusivity. It is inspired by the March 1960 demonstrations and staged sit-ins led by Texas Southern University (TSU) black students that successfully and peacefully ended segregation at Houston stores and lunch counters. This mural, created by artist Alex Arzu and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), depicts a scene of unity and collaboration, featuring an arrangement of eyes from different nationalities and age groups, pieced together like a puzzle. It symbolizes the diversity of people from various backgrounds, working and coming together in harmony to form a beautiful whole. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to New Hope Housing for donating their wall.
“Pas de deux” is a mural about sports as a powerful tool to unite people and trigger change. Sport is a fundamental right, and a powerful tool to strengthen social ties, develop solidarity and respect. This mural, created by artist Aches and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features two ballet dancers from Houston ballet united through the power of dance. The movements are represented through a superposition of colors and frames, like a fast shutter speed, capturing movements the human eye may miss. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to Houston Ballet for donating their wall.
“The Meeting” is a mural about the war in Ukraine and the promotion of peace. This mural, created by Ukrainian artist Aec Interesni Kazki and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), is dedicated to the thousands of Ukrainians who lost their limbs in the war. It features, in a unique surrealistic style, a son with missing body parts, returning home to his welcoming mother. At first sight, the modern scene looks like a celebration, yet a deeper look opens new interpretations with the bullet or the missing futuristic body parts. For this young man, the healing is made more difficult with the continued fighting. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the Icon Hotel and Verde Communities LLC for donating their wall.
“Accra Floods” is a mural about flooding and climate change. This mural was created by artist Moh Awudu, based on the original “Accra Floods” painting from Ablade Glover and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM). It connects two cities, Accra (in Ghana) and Houston, on different parts of the planet yet struck by similar natural disasters. The original and the mural both paint the crowd movement and its spirit. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) for donating their wall.
“The Fifth Element” is a mural about making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. This mural, created by artist Vesod and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), focuses on the relationship between humans, city, energy and nature. It suggests that through renewable energy, created from the four elements like air, water, fire and earth, people can live in cities perfectly connected to nature. The woman depicted is from the Houston community. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to the Regency Garage for donating their wall.
“Child Labour” highlights the connection between child labor and our consumption. This mural, created by artist Hopare and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), represents the two sides of the same coin: our consumption and the thing that powers it, child labor. Through the allegory of a girl putting on makeup next to her friend collecting mica, the mineral used to create makeup, we dig into a deeper topic and in the contradictions of our modern society. There is also a vision of hope here with a new generation, represented by the two girls, side by side questioning how we can fix this. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to Houston House for donating their wall.
“We all wear the mask, but how long will it last” is a mural about access to clean water for all. This mural, created by artist Louis Masai and curated by Street Art for Mankind (SAM), features a Texas black bear sitting in despair, disguised as a unicorn with a mask strapped to his head. Empty-handed, he is questioning us on our future! Like all wildlife, this endangered species' life depends on access to clean water, which he doesn't seem to find around him anymore. The message is that his future, like ours, could become a mythological fantasy if we don't manage our resources better. The piece is part of the second series of the Big Art. Bigger Change. murals produced in May 2023 in Downtown Houston. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of the Houston Downtown Management District and Harris County Precinct One. Special thanks to Houston Public Works for donating their wall.
Justice for All faces Buffalo Bayou and is a mural inspired by a photo of trailblazing Texas legislator and longest serving lawmaker in the House, Senfronia Thompson. A hypnotic set of multicolored eyes can be seen through the scales of justice.
Mural by Victor Ash
The Stream Crosses the Path mural is a replica of a John Biggers painting that is on display at the Julia C. Hester House. The mural features a group of black women in conversation against the background of water.
Mural by Street Art for Mankind.
Sharing the World is an ode to Houston’s international influence and diversity. The artist uses various characters to depict a world where people of different ethnicities look toward the future together.
Mural by Ana Marietta.
Human Rights is a portrait of Amy, a Latino girl from Houston, riding a wild horse as she whips her lasso above her head, calling for freedom, peace and social justice for all.
Mural by Victor Ash.
Quality Education for All is a colorful mural that plays with Picasso-style cubism and realism and uses one continuous black line. The goal of the mural is to bring awareness to the importance of education forpeople of all different backgrounds, both regionally and nationally.
Mural by Belin.
Located on the Downtown Hyatt building, The Ocean / Our Teacher / Our Healer honors the ocean and all the wildlife inside the sea. The artwork features whales and humans in a delicate depiction of life belowthe surface.
Mural by Ricky Lee Gordon.
This mural recognizes Houston as an innovation hub concerning COVID-19 vaccines. The artwork features Dr. Elena Bottazi, who was part of a dynamic duo that developed a free patent that led her to be nominated for a Noble Peace Prize in 2022.
Mural by Lula Goce.
King of the Road is a portrait of Houston resident, Houston Atlee on his new bike poised for adventure. This mural highlights the freedom and opportunities that come with having a bicycle and inspires others to go out and explore.
Mural by Case Maclaim.
No Gun Violence, located at Worthing High School in Houston, Texas, is a powerful and eloquent statement on the importance of gun control. The image depicts a school setting against the Houston landscape in the background, with students and teachers in unity, holding protest signs and giving voice to their ideas and thoughts on the student's future and the educators' hopes.
Mural by Houston-based artist Samson Bimbo Adenugba.
Located on the Harris County Attorney’s Office in Downtown Houston, Lady Justice is displayed with her eyes covered holding the scales of justice and a sword, poised for serving impartial justice to all. Mural by Victor Ash.
This piece is part of the Big Art. Bigger Change. project.
The Gate of Hope, the mosaic artwork placed on four columns at the Julia C. Hester House entrance, was dedicated at the historic Fifth Ward community center. Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, a Nigerian painter and artist, installed the artwork, as part of Commissioner Ellis’ efforts to place public art throughout Harris County.
Conversation with George at Precinct One’s Tom Bass Park, 15108 Cullen Blvd, was donated by Dannette K. Davis and the Kay Davis in the Community Foundation. The artwork by renowned sculptress Adrienne Rison-Isom invites a moment of quiet reflection or honest conversation with a seated statue of George Floyd. It’s a powerful piece of public art that unites us around a shared purpose and pushes us forward to action.
To celebrate Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson's historic confirmation as the first Black woman to the U.S. Supreme Court, we unveiled the Persevere mural, painted by Houston artist Anat Ronen, at Precinct One’s Youth Education Town (YET) building, 4900 Providence Street. With this mural, we hope to inspire the next generation to learn how far we have come and motivate them to keep shattering the very real barriers that still exist today.
Precinct One's Together We Grow mural located at the Hardy Community Center, 11901 W. Hardy Road, celebrates the area's agricultural history while recognizing the transportation and economic investments in the community. Mural by Reginald Adams.
A mural by Houston's internationally known artist, the late John Biggers, is located at the Tom Bass Community Center, 15108 Cullen Blvd. Created in 1987, Song of the Drinking Gourds greets residents as they enter the center.
The Sacred Struggles/Vibrant Justice mural, located near 3115 Blodgett along the Columbia Tap Trail in Third Ward, pays tribute to eight of Houston's African American civil rights leaders who fought for fairness, equality and opportunity. This jewel-toned mural honors Reverend John D. Moore, Christia Adair, Heman Sweatt, the Honorable Hattie Mae White, Reverend William Lawson, Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, Congressman Mickey Leland, and the former Houston City Councilwoman Ada Edwards. Mural by Reginald Adams.
The Mickey Leland Statue is located in Hermann Park, 6000 Hermann Park Dr., adjacent to Miller Outdoor Theater. The statue stands as a memorial to Congressman Mickey Leland and those who lost their lives in a plane crash during a humanitarian mission in Fugnido, Ethiopia in 1989. Statue by Ed Dwight. Watch a video of the unveiling. Learn more about Mickey Leland.
Moving Monuments is a public art project meant to reflect the shared ideals and values of Precinct One, and to elevate social justice heroes who broke down barriers, fought for equality, and led movements toward justice. Currently, the social justice heroes honored are: Cesar Chavez, Frederick Douglass, Dolores Huerta, Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, Reverend William Lawson, Congressman Mickey Leland, President Abraham Lincoln, Governor Ann Richards, Major Taylor and Harriet Tubman.
Learn more about Moving Monuments.
Visitors to Alexander Deussen Park are greeted by a functional piece of public art that was designed and created by Texas artist, David Adickes, who is known for his massive concrete artwork. Many of Mr. Adickes pieces, including the "We Love Houston" sign and several busts of U.S. Presidents, can be seen throughout Harris County. His most famous is the 687 foot-tall statue of Sam Houston that stands beside Texas Interstate 45.
A Black Lives Matter mural by Houston native and Third Ward artist, Jonah Elijah was installed in front of Jack Yates High School as a 2021 Black History Month tribute to Houston native, George Floyd. Mr. Floyd's murder by Minneapolis police in June 2020 sparked the racial reckoning that is spurring changes in our racially discriminatory and oppressive criminal legal system.
Christia Adair Park, located at 15107 Cullen Blvd, is home to another mural by Houston's Internationally known artist, the late John Biggers. Unfortunately, the mural was heavily damaged in August 2017 during Hurricane Harvey. Precinct One is currently investigating the restoration of this important and irreplaceable work of art.
Precinct One is home to Houston's largest mural, which covers 13,000 sq. ft. of the west side of the Hampton Inn downtown at 710 Crawford St. Named Zero Hunger, the mural reminds us that the root cause of hunger is poverty. Through a collaborative effort between the United Nations World Hunger Program USA, the nonprofit, Street Art for Mankind, and the internationally known muralist, Dragon 76, the mural was completed in March 2021. Watch the unveiling.