The mural, titled "The Beauty of Nature in The Woodlands," is located along The Woodlands Waterway near The Millennium sculpture by The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.
The 8-foot tall, 24-foot wide mural was created by local artists Amy Malkan and Marlo Saucedo, who were selected by The Woodlands Arts Council for the project. Community art students also contributed to the effort with a painting day in late September. The work was commissioned and gifted by Howard Hughes.
"This mural is a vibrant testament to The Woodlands' spirit as we celebrate our 50th anniversary,” said Jim Carman, president of the Houston region for Howard Hughes. “It beautifully captures our community's deep connection to nature, unwavering commitment to the arts and bold vision ahead.”
What they're saying
Saucedo told Community Impact she has lived in The Woodlands for 17 years and enjoys the access to nature and outdoor activities there as well as its arts community.
Originally from Houston, Saucedo said when she moved to The Woodlands she found a connection with the natural world. Saucedo uses words in her art, and words are also present in the mural in the way it highlights events, names and words associated with The Woodlands.
“ I feel like not only the amount of nature but the way they planned The Woodlands with the winding streets really allows you a calm environment to find yoruself in a way I did not have before," she said.
Malkan told Community Impact she was inspired by the variety of nature in The Woodlands area.
“We were being very intentional about what floral, flora and fauna to include,” Malkan said. “The monarch butterfly, sunflowers, the sunset hibiscus, the ruby throated hummingbird, the pine warbler, the koi fish, these were not just chosen randomly. They're very much are here in in The Woodlands, and so that's why we have them here.”
More details
Cindy Heiser, a member of The Woodlands Township board of directors, said The Woodlands is home to about 90 public art pieces that the mural will join, including art benches, bike racks, sculptures, mosaics and murals.
"It's essential to recognize the significance of public art and the vision that drives the creation of spaces designed to foster creativity and a sense of community," Heiser said. "These installations not only enhance the esthetic beauty of our surroundings, but also contribute to the cultural and social vitality of the area, enriching the daily lives of residents and visitors alike."
Jenny Carattini-Wright, executive director of The Woodlands Arts Council, said at the event the arts council is also celebrating an anniversary this year, hitting the 20-year mark.
