Houston’s vibrant street art scene is taking the world by storm, with over 850 murals that beautifully capture the city’s diverse cultural landscape. Joining the ranks of renowned mural art cities like New York and Los Angeles, Houston is making a name for itself as a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts.
Daniel Anguilu, a local muralist, is at the forefront of Houston’s street art movement. His work goes beyond aesthetics, exploring themes of identity, community, and challenging historical narratives. As a 2023 Awardee of the BIPOC Arts Network and Fund, Anguilu’s murals can be found throughout the city and beyond.
Anguilu’s artistic journey began in graffiti, where self-expression trumped traditional notions of artistry. Reflecting on his graffiti roots, Anguilu shares, “I think being an artist… limits you of who you are. When you paint graffiti… you never call yourself an artist.”
Having grown up in Mexico, Anguilu draws inspiration from the educational murals that adorned the streets, telling the story of a collective identity. “That understanding of public art is something I want to keep alive,” he explains.
Houston’s burgeoning mural scene is a bridge between established art forms and the city’s underground graffiti culture, a gap that Anguilu aims to close. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and empowering the young artists who once faced adversity for expressing themselves through graffiti.
For Anguilu, graffiti wasn’t just an art form but a cultural necessity, giving a voice to marginalized communities. He hopes his work will shed light on the mistreatment of young artists and lead to a greater acceptance of creative expression.
Dr. Siddiqui from Culture of Health Advancing Together (CHAT) recognizes the transformative power of mural art in communities. CHAT actively supports Anguilu’s work, using murals to tell the stories of immigrant and refugee populations in Houston.
Murals not only beautify neighborhoods but also create a sense of belonging for residents, especially in culturally diverse cities like Houston where representation is key to social integration.
Anguilu’s work is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Houston, calling for a greater appreciation of the creative voices that have long been marginalized. His murals stand as a powerful reminder of the city’s diverse identity and the importance of self-expression.