Community mural project celebrates Hispanic heritage in Waco

During a recent city council meeting, members discussed a proposed mural donation from the Cesar Chavez Neighborhood Association, aimed at celebrating Hispanic culture and contributions within the Waco community. Fiona Bond from Creative Waco presented the project, emphasizing its significance in honoring the heritage of Hispanic residents in South Waco.

The mural is proposed to be located on the South Waco Community Center, a site chosen for its symbolism of unity and community pride, as it also houses the Waco Hispanic Museum. The council is being asked to approve three key aspects of the project: the placement of the mural on the city-owned building, funding of up to $10,000 for site preparation by Parks and Recreation, and the adoption of the completed mural into the City of Waco Public Art Collection.

The project, initiated by Armando Arvizo from the Cesar Chavez Neighborhood Association, aims to engage the community through a collaborative design process led by artist Jesus Rivera. Rivera, a well-known figure in the local art scene, has committed to creating a mural that authentically reflects the Latinx style and incorporates community input. The design will feature a triptych format, showcasing various aspects of the Hispanic story in Waco, including cultural elements and notable figures.

The total budget for the mural is estimated at $22,000, with funding sourced from community donations. The timeline for the project includes site preparation in October, painting in November, and a completion celebration in December. The council expressed strong support for the initiative, highlighting its importance during Hispanic Heritage Month and the need to recognize and memorialize the contributions of the Hispanic community in Waco.