More murals are popping up on traffic signal control cabinets around The Leader area, with two new editions at Heights Boulevard and 6th Street and 43rd and Rosslyn. The Mini Murals project started in the summer of 2015 and was originally commissioned by UP Art Studio founders Noah and Elia Quiles to turn traffic signal control cabinets in Houston into art. Now there are more than 100 murals around the city.
It’s the late Ann Richards who is causing a stir on Heights Boulevard. Artist Tra` Slaughter said that his inspiration for the piece was Richards’ career, her legacy and the impact of her character that is still just as strong today.
Communities guide the artists in selecting the art’s theme. “This particular district wanted to portray and celebrate women of politics who made lasting changes in government today.” said Slaughter. “Ann Richards and Barbara Jordan were suggested and from there I researched each of the ladies and created a rendering based upon my research. After a few minor revisions, what you see is the final result for Ann, and on August 2nd I’ll begin the Barbara Jordan box at Dallas and Taft.”
Tra` Slaughter is a 16 year resident of Houston who moved to Houston in 2000 to attend the Art Institute of Houston, and obtained an Associate Degree in Graphic Design in 2002.
“I began painting again while attending AIH, and sold my first paintings there as well,” he said. “From that time on I’ve painted, and strive to paint every day.”
Slaughter said he’s overwhelmed at the response to his Richards piece, both on social media, and with the public.
“Everyone has been thankful and very gracious with their compliments,” he said. “I also received quite a bit of support via beverages, thumbs up and a couple high-fives while I was out painting. So, thank you to the Heights, UP Art Studio and Ann Richards for the support, opportunity and inspiration.”
The tree mural at 43rd and Rosslyn is courtesy of w3r3on3, also known as Gelson Danilo Lemus. According to his mini murals biography, Lemus is a Guatemalan-born, resident of Houston, who has been creating works of art for the last 17 years, beginning at the age of 6. He was introduced to graffiti at the age of 14 and has since then established a unique and distinguishable three-dimensional style, which often illustrates movement.
He recently showcased his artistic talent in Mexico City, where he participated by painting at a Women’s Day event, and also collaborated with Houston-based artist Ana Maria, at the annual SEL 4 show in San Juan, Puerto Rico.