District 2 Launches Art Contest to Revitalize Murals

Published on April 23, 2024

District 2 Launches Art Contest to Revitalize Murals Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

SAN ANTONIO (April22, 2024) – Councilmember Jalen McKee-Rodriguez, in collaboration with the Department of Arts & Culture, announces the launch of an art contest to revitalize the iconic murals honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on the N. New Braunfels overpass sign. Created in 1997, these murals have been a symbol of inspiration and unity for over 25 years but are now faded and need renewal.

District 2 invites talented artists in Bexar County, aged 18 and over, to submit their original artwork for consideration. Two winning artworks will be selected — one for each side of the overpass sign — with each selected artist receiving a prize package including:

• $4,000 cash prize
• Special recognition in communications announcing the contest winners
• Special gift from the Department of Arts & Culture

Submissions must adhere to the following requirements:

• Artwork should focus on one of the themes: "Let Freedom Ring" and "The Legacy of the Eastside"
• The sign area dimensions are h. 8 ft. x w. 36 ft., and the artwork ratio should match.
• Only traditional two-dimensional artistic media is acceptable.
• No text or lettering may be used in the composition.
• All submissions must be original artworks created specifically for this contest.
• One individual artist per entry. No collaborations or group works.
• Artists should not sign artwork or identify themselves on the art piece.

The Councilmember emphasizes the importance of this initiative in preserving the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and celebrating the vibrant culture of the Eastside community. To submit, artists must complete the provided form accurately and upload a high-quality image of their artwork by Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. CST. For more information and to submit artwork, visit the submission form.