Summary of Austin’s Iconic Murals
The public murals around Austin include a mix of commissioned work and unsanctioned drawings that survive because of widespread support. One notable event was when property owners announced plans to paint over Daniel Johnston’s Hi, How Are You mural; however, a loud public outcry helped save the friendly frog cartoon. Meanwhile, the Hope Outdoor Gallery was originally just an unfinished building covered in graffiti, yet neighbors and local artists have transformed it into a thriving public art space that supports aspiring artists.
Hi, How Are You
One of the most beloved murals in Austin, Hi, How Are You? was created by Daniel Johnston, who is also known for his music. The frog depicted in the mural is a variation of the image he drew for the cover of his 1983 album which shares the same name. This artwork gained worldwide fame when Kurt Cobain famously wore a T-shirt emblazoned with the image during a 1991 promotional tour.
Location: 2100 Guadalupe Street
I Love You So Much
This simple mural on the wall of Jo’s Coffee on South Congress Avenue has become a beloved spot for photography. Originally covered in graffiti in 2017, the mural was quickly restored. Musician Amy Cook originally spray-painted this artwork as a love letter to her girlfriend, which has resonated with people from around the world, encapsulating the love that defines Austin.
Location: 1300 South Congress Avenue
Human-Insect Hybrid
Artist Ana Maria, also known as Ana Marietta, painted this impressive mural as part of the SXSW festival in 2015. Often depicting a blend of humans and insects, she has a background in animal sciences from the University of Puerto Rico Mayaguez Campus, which significantly influences her artwork.
Location: 1209 Red River Street (behind Brick Oven Restaurant)
Spaceman with Floating Pizza
Mike “Truth” Johnston, a former school teacher, creates everything from street art to commissioned works, such as the mural on Google Fiber vans in Austin. In addition to murals, he often designs posters using wheat paste. Check out more of his stunning works at www.mikejohnstonartist.com.
Location: 1209 Red River Street (behind Brick Oven Restaurant)
Til Death Do Us Part
Federico Archuleta, also known as El Federico, created the mural titled Til Death Do Us Part using a mix of stencils and freehand spray painting. Known for his numerous murals throughout Austin, you can explore more of his work at fe-de-rico.com.
Location: Corner of East 7th Street and Waller
Hope Outdoor Gallery
The Hope Outdoor Gallery serves as a community-focused educational project initiated by a nonprofit organization promoting art and music. This “community paint park” offers aspiring street artists a venue to display their large-scale works, transforming the place into a community hub hosting dance classes and outdoor events. While visitors can come and observe the art freely, advance registration is needed for organized events.
Location: Corner of 11th Street and Baylor Street
Austintatious Mural
Originally painted in 1974 by Kerry Awn and the Austintatious Artists, this mural highlights significant aspects of Austin’s rich history and culture. Despite vandalism in 2014, the original artists were determined to restore their work, and they raised funds to repaint the mural themselves. It also serves as a lively backdrop for the 23rd Street Artists’ Market, where visitors can find locally made art and crafts.
Location: Near the corner of 23rd Street and Guadalupe.
Greetings from Austin
Situated on the southern wall of Roadhouse Relics, Greetings from Austin represents a giant postcard. The mural, crafted by artists Todd Sanders and Rory Skagen in 1998, required restoration after a decade due to the harsh Austin weather. Thanks to the efforts of the original artists and friends, the mural was revitalized in 2013, making it a favored site for visitors to capture pictures, despite the bustling surrounding streets.
Location: 1720 South 1st Street
Varsity Theatre Mural
This poignant mural by artist Carlos Lowry was painted in 1979 and has witnessed the evolution of the building it adorns. While the original Varsity Theatre sign still remains, the building has transitioned from an art house theater to a record store and now operates as a Wells Fargo branch. The mural showcases prominent figures in cinema history, highlighting its historical significance.
Location: 2402 Guadalupe Street
Jim Morrison Mural
This black-and-white mural depicting Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and other musical legends once graced the side of Cheapo Records. Though the record store has since closed, the mural continues to be a striking addition to the side of the GW Boutique, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the city’s vibrant musical history.
Location: 914 North Lamar Boulevard
Rhapsody Mural in East Austin
Located at East 11th and Waller Street, the tile mosaic mural titled Rhapsody was created by John Yancey. This piece is part of the Dr. Charles E. Urdy Plaza, where Yancey, a working artist and educator, focuses on community-based murals. Notably, he serves as the John D. Murchison Professor in Art at the University of Texas at Austin.
Location: East 11th and Waller Street
Joy of Life Mural
Titled Le Bonheur de Vivre (The Joy of Life), this mural near the UT campus and The Drag was painted by Doug Jaques, who passed away in 2013. His creative legacy remains evident throughout the city. One of his notable contributions includes the underwater backdrop at Esther’s Follies, a comedy venue on 6th Street.
Location: West 24th Street and Guadalupe.
Kissing Cowboys
Artist Erin Bower created the Kissing Cowboys mural as part of Dario’s Last Rodeo show and the East Austin Studio tour. By day, Bower works at Showgoat Mural Works, specializing in large-scale signage and commercial imagery. Discover more of her creative endeavors at www.erinmbower.com.
Location: Cesar Chavez Boulevard
Beto Mural
Initially crafted during Beto O’Rourke’s Texas senate campaign, this mural in east Austin has been updated to reflect “2020” for his presidential campaign. The artist, Chris Rogers, designed it as a tribute to O’Rourke’s unifying message, emphasizing that the work wasn’t meant to be overtly political. Despite setbacks in the campaign, O’Rourke remains a beloved figure among his local supporters.
Location: Between Cesar Chavez and East 2nd Street east of Waller Street.
