Following the removal of roadway murals and markings in San Marcos, the City Council approved the installation of a large-scale mural in City Park. The artwork is intended to enhance the recreational space while creating a cultural landmark.
The two-minute impact
The Arts Commission will select a local artist to design a mural for the public basketball court at City Park along the San Marcos River, according to agenda documents. The painted court will serve as a visual landmark to support tourism and creative placemaking.
City Park is a highly visible location in San Marcos, located near major amenities, including the city's activity center, library, skatepark and Art Park. The new mural will build on recent city investments in playground equipment and beautify a well-used park feature, according to agenda documents.
The city hopes the installation will encourage outdoor recreation and wellness, generate community partnerships and celebrate the community’s identity through an addition to the city’s public art collection, according to agenda documents.
San Marcos staff conducted a public interest community survey in March, collecting paper responses at a City Park event and promoting an online submission form. The survey showed support for the mural, with full support from users of the basketball court, according to agenda documents.
Throughout the design and installation process, staff will address needs related to durability, maintenance, possible design distraction, texture and use of colors compatible with colorblind players.
The city will now call for local and area artists interested in designing the mural. The Arts Commission will review and select artists who will then work with professional basketball court mural installers. A community meeting will be held with the artist to receive input on the design.
The background
The City Park basketball court mural was proposed and discussed by the Arts Commission during a 2023 visioning workshop. The project concept was presented to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for consensus to move forward in 2024.
The Arts Commission provided unanimous support for the project in January, according to agenda documents.
Going forward
Once an artist has been selected and a design has been prepared, the Arts Commission will review it and share the approved mural with the Parks and Recreation Department, according to agenda documents. The installation process will take six to 10 months to complete.
