Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – The City of Brownsville is proud to announce the official unveiling of a newdowntown mural, a testament to the vibrant culture and spirit of Brownsville. Located at 1268 E. ElizabethSt. (E. 13th St. between Elizabeth and Levee), the mural is a glorious representation of what makes the Cityunique and was designed and painted by talented local artist, Jesse James.
The mural, aptly titled “Welcome to Brownsville,” is a canvas of iconic Brownsville moments and community experiences. From the enchanting and internationally celebrated Gladys Porter Zoo to the soulful sounds of a mariachi band; from the magnificent Queen Isabella Causeway to the pristine beaches of South PadreIsland, the mural encapsulates the heart and soul of Brownsville, the “City on the Border, By the Sea and Beyond.” The mural is approximately 23 feet in height, 49 feet in width, and 1,127 square feet.
The downtown mural project was called for by the City of Brownsville in collaboration with project partners including the Brownsville Beautification Committee, Brownsville Museum of Fine Art, Consulate of Mexicoin Brownsville, Revival of Cultural Arts, and the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Funding for the“Welcome to Brownsville” mural was made possible by the Brownsville Beautification Committee and the Musk Foundation.
An external selection committee was assembled and comprised of individuals from different backgrounds that are knowledgeable and experienced in the arts, downtown, and/or community culture. The committeereviewed the applications submitted in response to the call for local artists and evaluated the submittals based on the project criteria, including completeness and artist connection to the listed community themes. The committee
selected the finalists, one of them being Mr. James. The public voted for their favorite mural from the finalistsand were encouraged to attend the “Meet the Muralist Finalists,” an event hosted by the Revival of Cultural Arts (ROCA) and supported by partners. Over 6,000 ballots were cast by the public; the results helped determine the lead muralist for the downtown mural project, Mr. James.
| Residents and visitors are cordially invited to join us for the Artist Talk | |
| Date | September 14, 2023 |
| Time | 6:00 PM |
| Location | Brownsville Museum of Fine Art, 660 E. Ringgold St. |
