Austin proclaims Jim Franklin Day, highlights upcoming documentary
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Summary
Council Member Chitovella read a proclamation Nov. 6 honoring artist Jim Franklin for creating the armadillo imagery tied to Austin's music scene; a short documentary about Franklin is set to premiere Dec. 11 on Austin PBS.
Council Member Chitovella presented a proclamation Nov. 6 honoring artist Jim Franklin for his artwork and cultural influence in Austin. The proclamation cites Franklin's residency at the Armadillo World Headquarters and credits his armadillo imagery with helping shape the city's 1970s countercultural identity.
"Jim Franklin's lifelong dedication to the arts reminds us that creativity is more than expression. It shapes community, identity, and the stories we tell about ourselves," Chitovella said while reading the proclamation. Nakia, who spoke following Chitovella, said Franklin's art "didn't just capture Austin's spirit. It helped create it," and described the work as central to the city's creative culture.
During the ceremony, organizers announced a short documentary titled The Armadillo Man, The Trips of Jim Franklin will premiere on Austin PBS on Dec. 11 at 8 p.m. Chitovella concluded by proclaiming 11/06/2025 as Jim Franklin Day in Austin. Honorees and officials then moved for a group photo.
The proclamation is ceremonial and did not include council votes or new budgetary actions in the meeting transcript.