21 Murals That Bring Austin’s Walls to Life
Welcome to the vivid streets of Austin, where the walls whisper tales of creativity, history, and community spirit. This city, renowned for its vibrant music scene and lively cultural tapestry, is also home to an extensive array of murals that transform ordinary building facades into stunning canvases of public art. As you explore the contours of murals that bring Austin’s walls to life, you delve into more than just the colors that meet the eye. These murals are profound expressions of the city’s soul, each stroke embedding a narrative into the urban landscape. From the iconic “Greetings from Austin” to the playful “You’re My Butter Half,” they connect, inspire, and challenge, acting as gateways to the mystical, opening to a space where the mystical and the mundane dance in harmony. Every mural is a portal, every story paints a picture of Austin, inviting you to journey through its heart by way of its walls.
Graffiti and street art in Austin have undergone a remarkable transformation from the 2000s to the 2020s, shaped by shifting perceptions, cultural acceptance, and structural changes. In the early 2000s, graffiti was widely seen as vandalism, with strict anti-graffiti laws forcing artists to work in secrecy, limiting their visibility to hidden alleyways and abandoned buildings. By the 2010s, cultural attitudes began to shift, and spaces like the HOPE Outdoor Gallery (established in 2011) provided legal platforms for artists to create large-scale, elaborate works without fear of fines or removal. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook amplified this evolution, allowing artists to share their work with global audiences and turning murals into celebrated landmarks for locals and tourists alike. The City of Austin began funding more public art initiatives, commissioning street artists for projects like Writing on the Walls, which further legitimized graffiti as public art. Additionally, the gentrification of neighborhoods like East Austin saw businesses embrace murals as tools for placemaking and branding, creating both visibility and funding opportunities for artists.
The 2020s, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, marked another boom for street art, as murals became a vital outlet for artists to express themes of hope, resilience, mental health, and social justice. With traditional art spaces closed, outdoor murals became gathering points for reflection and connection. These combined factors transformed graffiti in Austin from an underground act of rebellion into a celebrated and essential part of the city’s cultural identity, cementing street art as an influential force in Austin’s evolving urban landscape. Through vibrant walls and expressive strokes, Austin continues to tell its story—one mural at a time.
Adding a personal touch to this artistic voyage, my husband, Adam Walter’s song “Hope” serves as a melodic backdrop to a music video we created, featuring several of these mesmerizing murals. This fusion of music and visual art celebrates the hopeful, enduring spirit of Austin, inviting viewers to experience the city’s culture in harmony with its artistic expressions. Join me as we uncover the memorable and iconic murals that not only decorate this city but define its dynamic spirit.
1. Austintatious (1974)
By Kerry Awn, Tommy B., and Rick Turner
Guadalupe and 21st St
The “Austintatious” mural, created in 1974 by Kerry Awn, Rick Turner, and Tommy B., is one of Austin, Texas’ oldest and most iconic pieces of street art. Located originally on the side of the University Co-op garage on 23rd Street near The University of Texas at Austin campus, this renowned mural offers a whimsical, panoramic view of the city’s cultural and historical landmarks. Celebrated for its vibrant portrayal of Austin’s quirky personality, it features a collage-like array of scenes that reflect the city’s eclectic spirit. Over the years, “Austintatious” has undergone several restorations to preserve its bright colors and intricate details, ensuring it remains a cherished landmark. By encapsulating the essence of Austin’s motto, “Keep Austin Weird,” it showcases unique cultural icons and historical moments, making it a must-see destination for both locals and visitors.
2. Pan Am Neighborhood Park (Late 70’s)
By Kerry Awn
2100 E 3rd St
The “Hillside Theater Mural” in Pan Am Neighborhood Park, located in East Austin, Texas, is a vibrant embodiment of local community and cultural heritage. Created by artist Kerry Awn in the late 1970s, this colorful mural adorns the exterior of the Hillside Theater within the park. It features dynamic and colorful imagery that celebrates the diverse backgrounds and histories of the area’s residents. Serving as a focal point for community gatherings and cultural events, the mural not only beautifies the park but also fosters a sense of identity and pride. By blending artistic expression with public engagement, it turns the park into a cultural landmark that vividly tells the story of its community.
3. “Greetings from Austin” (1988)
By Todd Sanders and Rory Skagen
1720 S. 1st St
The “Greetings from Austin” mural was created in 1998 and is located on the side of the Roadhouse Relics building on South First Street in Austin, Texas. This iconic piece of public art was painted by Todd Sanders and his friend Rory Skagen and is styled to resemble a vintage postcard, celebrating the cultural landmarks and vibrant atmosphere of Austin. The mural has become a popular spot for both tourists and locals to take photos and appreciate Austin’s commitment to public art.
4. Holly Street Power Plant (1990’s & On-Going)
Various Artists
2400 Holly Street
The Holly Street Murals in Austin, Texas, began in the early 1990s as a community initiative to transform the sound walls of the Holly Street Power Plant into vibrant expressions of Chicano culture and heritage. Created by artists such as Robert Herrera, Oscar Cortez, Felipe Garza, Taner Martinez, Joe Perez, Steven Rendon, and David Santos, the murals depict traditional Mexican and Aztec imagery alongside scenes from daily life in East Austin, celebrating the neighborhood’s rich cultural identity. One of the most iconic pieces, “Por La Raza,” painted in 1992 by Herrera and Cortez, features vivid depictions of Aztec gods and symbols of Mexican history, paying homage to the Chicano community’s heritage. Despite challenges such as vandalism and environmental damage, efforts like the 2018 restoration of “Por La Raza” by the original artists—supported by Arte Texas and the City of Austin’s Art in Public Places Program—have preserved these murals. Today, the Holly Street Murals stand as enduring symbols of the resilience, creativity, and pride of East Austin’s Mexican American community, reflecting its history and efforts to maintain cultural identity amidst urban development.
5. “Hi, How Are You Frog (Jeremiah the Innocent)” (1993)
By Daniel Johnston
Church of Scientology, Guadalupe Street & West 21st Street
The “Hi, How Are You Frog,” also known as “Jeremiah the Innocent,” is a mural in Austin, Texas, painted by musician and artist Daniel Johnston in 1993. The mural features a character that first appeared on Johnston’s 1983 album cover “Hi, How Are You.” The iconic frog is located at the intersection of Guadalupe and 21st Street, on the side of what was once a Sound Exchange record store. Johnston was commissioned to paint the mural as part of an agreement with the record store, and it has since become an important cultural symbol and a cherished piece of Austin’s music and artistic heritage.
6. Railroad Bridge Art (2008-2012)
by Scott Kimble O’Donnell
283 N. Lamar
The Railroad Bridge Art over Lady Bird Lake in Austin, Texas, stands as a testament to both the city’s vibrant street art culture and the resilience of its creator, Scott Kimble O’Donnell. Created between 2008 and 2012, the bridge features thought-provoking messages like “Focus One Point And Breathe,” “Life Is Change, Be Flexible,” and “Let’s Pretend We Are Robots.” O’Donnell, a U.S. Army sergeant, began his work in 2008 after moving to Austin, with each mural taking approximately two weeks to complete. Despite obstacles, including being arrested during the creation of the piece “Let’s Pretend We Are Robots,” O’Donnell persevered, completing his final addition, “I’ve Got Ninja Style and a Kung Fu Grip,” in 2012. These murals, blending simplicity with profound messaging, have since become iconic landmarks, reflecting both O’Donnell’s personal journey and Austin’s embrace of creativity and public art.
7. “Hope Outdoor Gallery Exhibit”
(2010, Closed in 2016 Reopened in 2025)
16 Springdale Rd
The HOPE Outdoor Gallery Exhibit, originally opened in 2010 in Austin, Texas, became a beloved hub for street art, creativity, and community engagement. Located on Baylor Street, the gallery featured layered murals and graffiti art created by local and visiting artists, providing a legal and ever-evolving space for public expression. It quickly gained iconic status, attracting artists and tourists alike, and becoming a vibrant representation of Austin’s creative spirit. However, the original location closed in 2016 due to redevelopment plans, leaving a gap in the city’s street art scene. After years of anticipation, the gallery reopened in 2025, revitalized with a new location and renewed commitment to fostering artistic collaboration and showcasing Austin’s cultural identity. The HOPE Outdoor Gallery Exhibit continues to be a dynamic landmark, celebrating the power of art to bring people together.
8. “I Love You So Much” (2010)
By Amy Cook
Jo’s Coffee Shop, 1300 South Congress Avenue
The “I love you so much” mural in Austin, Texas, was created by musician Amy Cook in 2010. She spray-painted the message on the side of Jo’s Coffee on South Congress Avenue as a love note to her partner, Liz Lambert, who is the co-owner of the coffee shop. The simple, heartfelt message quickly became a beloved landmark in Austin, drawing visitors who often take photos in front of the mural as a backdrop.
9. “You’re My Butter Half” (2012)
By Creative Suitcase
2000 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
The “You’re My Butter Half” mural was created in 2012 by Creative Suitcase, a local creative agency, as part of a project in collaboration with the United Way for Greater Austin. The mural is located on the side of the United Way for Greater Austin building at 2000 E. MLK Jr. Blvd. It was designed to promote community engagement and togetherness, quickly becoming a popular spot for photographs, especially among couples. The playful and pun-filled artwork contributes to Austin’s vibrant street art scene and serves as a backdrop for countless memorable moments.
10. “Love From Austin” (2015)
By Will Bryant
South Congress Hotel, 1603 South Congress Ave
The “Love From Austin” mural is located on the South Congress Hotel in Austin, Texas. It was painted by Will Bryant, a local artist, in 2015. This mural is part of the South Congress Hotel’s commitment to integrate local art and culture into its design, enhancing the vibrant community atmosphere of the South Congress area. The colorful, lively design of the mural reflects the eclectic and spirited vibe of Austin and serves as a warm welcome to both locals and visitors exploring the area.
11. “Tau Ceti” (2018)
By Josef Kristofoletti
E 2nd St & Brazos Street, Austin
The “Tau Ceti” mural in Austin, Texas, is one of the tallest public artworks in the city, created by artist Josef Kristofoletti and completed in 2018. Located at the corner of Brazos and Second Street, this vibrant and colorful mural is named after the Tau Ceti star system, which is about 12 light-years away from Earth. The artwork is known for its striking gradient of colors, ranging from warm yellows to cool blues, designed to reflect a spectrum of light similar to a star’s radiance. The mural adds a splash of color and a sense of wonder to the urban environment, embodying the creative spirit of Austin.
12. “Willie Nelson for President” (2019)
By Wiley Ross
1423 South Congress Avenue
The “Willie Nelson for President” mural, painted by artist Wiley Ross, was created in 2019. Located at 1423 South Congress Avenue on the side of Stag Provisions in Austin, Texas, this mural features a large, lifelike portrait of the beloved country music icon Willie Nelson, accompanied by the playful phrase “Willie Nelson for President.” Conceived as a humorous endorsement of Nelson for presidential office—a sentiment often shared by his fans—the mural not only celebrates his significant impact on music and culture but also captures the lighthearted and whimsical spirit of Austin’s local character. This vibrant piece has quickly become a popular spot for photographs, symbolizing local pride and the community’s deep cultural affection for Nelson.
13. “Women Vote” (2020)
By Chris Rogers
111 E. Cesar Chavez St
The “Women Vote” mural in Austin, Texas, is located on East Cesar Chavez Street and was created by artist Chris Rogers in 2020. Painted to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote in the United States, this vibrant mural features portraits of influential women who have significantly contributed to the fight for women’s rights and equality. The artwork not only adds aesthetic value to the area but also serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the importance of civic participation.
14. “Be Well Murals” (2020)
By Mike Johnston
Near the Original Whole Foods, South Lamar Boulevard, specifically under the 5th Street underpass
The “Be Well” mural, located on South Lamar Boulevard in Austin, Texas, was created by artist Mike Johnston in 2020 as a visual beacon of support and solidarity during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Known for his use of pop culture and positive messaging, Johnston, also known by his artist moniker “TRUTH,” designed this mural to uplift and inspire the community. With its vibrant colors and bold typography, the mural captures the eye and engages passersby, encouraging a moment of reflection and positivity. The phrase “Be Well” serves not just as a simple greeting but as a profound communal wish for health and happiness, echoing Austin’s ethos of caring and community support. This piece adds to the rich tapestry of public art in the city, enhancing Austin’s reputation as a supportive and artistically vibrant community.
15. “Hola Amigo, Hi Friend” (2020)
By Carmen Rangel
Cesar Chavez St and Robert T Martinez Jr St
The “Hola Amigo, Hi Friend” mural in Austin, Texas, is a vibrant testament to the city’s welcoming and inclusive spirit. This colorful piece was painted by artist Carmen Rangel in 2020. The mural features the greeting “Hola Amigo, Hi Friend” in bold, cheerful lettering, set against a backdrop of warm, inviting colors that symbolize the blend of Mexican and American cultures. This public artwork not only beautifies the urban landscape but also promotes a message of friendship and cultural unity, resonating strongly with both the local community and visitors to the area. As part of Austin’s diverse array of street art, it reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to celebrating its multicultural identity and fostering connections among its people.
16. “Mr. Smoke’s Dragon” (2020)
By Scott Tarbox
2310 Guadalupe St
Mr. Smoke’s Dragon is a bold and vibrant mural created by Scott Tarbox in 2020, located at 2310 Guadalupe Street, adjacent to Happy Clouds Smoke Shop in Austin, Texas. The mural features a striking dragon rendered in Tarbox’s signature style, blending intricate designs, bold colors, and fluid motion to create a captivating piece of street art. The dynamic composition reflects the energy of Austin’s bustling Drag near the University of Texas campus, making it a standout attraction for locals and visitors alike. This mural is not only a testament to Tarbox’s artistic skill but also an enduring contribution to Austin’s rich and ever-evolving street art scene.
17. “Art Box Program” (2020)
Various Artists
For all the locations click HERE
The Art Box Program in Austin, Texas, is an innovative public art initiative that transforms ordinary utility boxes into vibrant canvases, showcasing the talent of local artists and adding color and creativity to the city’s streets. Spearheaded by the City of Austin’s Art in Public Places Program, this project invites artists to reimagine these functional structures as opportunities for artistic expression. Currently, there are 30 “official” art boxes scattered throughout the city, each featuring unique designs that reflect Austin’s culture, history, and diverse community. These decorated boxes turn mundane urban fixtures into captivating pieces of public art, with styles ranging from abstract designs to detailed narratives. The program not only enhances the city’s aesthetic appeal but also fosters a deeper connection between the community and its creative voices. The Art Box Program has become a beloved part of Austin’s cultural landscape, demonstrating the city’s commitment to supporting local artists and integrating art into everyday public spaces. Each box tells its own story, contributing to Austin’s reputation as a city where art thrives in every corner.
18. “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay” (2021)
By Sadé Lawson
261 N. Lamar Blvd
The “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” mural, created by Texas-raised artist Sadé Lawson, is located near 261 N. Lamar Blvd in downtown Austin, Texas. This vibrant piece features a woman depicted in three emotional states, each represented by different colors, surrounded by dragonflies and lotus flowers that symbolize resilience and growth. Through her artwork, Lawson conveys a powerful message of empowerment, encouraging viewers to embrace the full spectrum of emotions and reminding them that it’s natural to experience a range of feelings. The mural stands as a poignant reflection of self-acceptance and the strength found in vulnerability, adding a thoughtful and visually stunning contribution to Austin’s public art scene.
19. “Re-Distribution Hall” (2021 & On-Going)
1500 E 4th St
The “Have Courage and Be Kind” mural by Emily Mente is an enchanting piece of street art located in Austin, Texas. This artwork was created in 2021 and can be found on the side of a residential building in the city’s vibrant east side. Emily Mente designed this mural to inspire and uplift the community, featuring the phrase “Have Courage and Be Kind” in elegant, flowing script surrounded by a lush floral motif. The choice of words reflects a universal message of resilience and compassion, resonating deeply in today’s social climate. Mente’s use of soft colors and delicate designs adds a soothing touch to the urban environment, making the mural a beloved spot for contemplation and photography among locals and visitors alike.
By Charles Ben Russell
20. “Generational Ties” (2024)
By Chris Rogers
1006 Congress Avenue
“Generational Ties” by Chris Rogers is a powerful mural located at the Old Bakery and Artisan Emporium in East Austin, Texas, completed in 2024. This mural serves as a vibrant homage to the strength, resilience, and interconnectedness of families across generations within Austin’s historically rich East Side community. Through intricate details and bold, expressive imagery, Rogers captures moments of connection, storytelling, and shared cultural heritage that define the neighborhood. The mural portrays faces of elders and youth, woven together with symbols of growth, wisdom, and continuity, illustrating the deep roots that anchor the community. Rich in symbolism and emotion, “Generational Ties” not only celebrates the past but also inspires hope for the future, standing as a testament to the enduring bonds that hold communities together. Its prominent placement at the Old Bakery and Artisan Emporium ensures it remains a focal point for reflection, gathering, and pride, inviting viewers to honor the stories embedded in every brushstroke.
21. “Bird King” (2024)
By Lucas Aoki
440 E St Elmo Rd
“Bird King” by Lucas Aoki, located at The Yard in Austin, Texas, was painted in 2024. This mural showcases Aoki’s signature blend of surrealism, intricate details, and a touch of whimsy. The artwork features an elongated, bird-like figure stretched across the facade, its fluid limbs creating a sense of calm movement, while a single vibrant red flower delicately balances above. The mural’s grayscale tones, contrasted by the striking pop of red, evoke a sense of quiet resilience and reflection. As part of The Yard, a creative space brimming with local businesses and artists, “Bird King” stands as a bold and contemplative landmark, inviting visitors to pause and connect with its serene yet powerful presence.
Austin is home to a thriving graffiti and street art scene, with countless talented artists transforming walls, coffee shops, and public spaces into stunning works of art. Some of my personal favorites include ER, whose black-and-white graffiti at Spokesman Coffee captivates with its bold, fluid lines; Peelander Yellow, whose playful and vibrant murals brighten locations like East Side King; and Dan Grissom, whose striking mural at Radio Coffee and Beer adds charm and character with his distinctive style. These artists, along with many others, contribute to Austin’s dynamic artistic identity, turning the city into a living, breathing canvas that invites exploration and admiration at every turn.
