Generational Ties | Mural by Ruben Esquivel
This is the first mural painted at the historic Old Bakery and Emporium in Austin, TX. Entitled “Generational Ties”, the mural visually represents the site’s rich culture and history. The muralist, Ruben Esquivel, is a local Austin-born artist of Latino and Indigenous descent, who was recently voted Austin Chronicle’s Best Muralist 2024.
Artist Ruben Esquivel | / _esquivel / @rubenesquivel5883
Downtown Austin Alliance - Writing on the Walls | https://downtownaustin.com/foundation...
The Old Bakery and Emporium | https://www.austintexas.gov/OBE
The mural explores the Indigenous heritage of Austin and the Swedish legacy of the Old Bakery and Emporium. The design prominently features two native women whose braids are intertwined, illustrating the beauty and wisdom that are passed down from generation to generation. The braids are filled with flora, fauna, and the Swedish national flower - the giktgräs. Hummingbirds, believed to symbolize love, joy, and rebirth, and a protective swallow add to the rich symbolism. The background is adorned with a traditional Swedish textile pattern, blending the heritage of both cultures.
The mural is in partnership with the Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation's Writing on the Walls program and a partnership with the Austin Parks Foundation and the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department. An 18-month-long community engagement project ensured the mural project’s success.
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