The Art of Change

In a city teeming with artistic expression and creativity, one of the best ways to take in a little culture is to simply walk around. Downtown is now especially bursting with color, thanks in part to the Big Art. Bigger Change. initiative, spearheaded by the nonprofit Street Art for Mankind.

The organization, which aims to harness the power of art to inspire social change, has installed 47 large murals and counting in downtown Houston. Each is inspired by one of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and by the people and organizations making a difference in Houston.

Started in fall 2022, the series aims to promote community-driven initiatives, beautify the downtown area and make Houston a new street-art destination.

1. Empowered

ARTIST: Adry del Rocio

LOCATION: Republic Building, 1018 Preston St. 1

Painted on a wall adjacent to “La Shamana,” “Empowered” focuses on advancing women’s rights through economic empowerment and highlights the work of Houston’s Women’s Commission, which aims to advance equality and equity for women in the City of Houston.

2. La Shamana

ARTIST: Lula Goce

LOCATION: Republic Building, 1018 Preston St. 2

“La Shamana” celebrates Houston’s status as an innovation hub, particularly in the health care sector. The mural depicts Dr. Maria Elena Bottazzi, one of a pair of scientists who developed the free-patent “World’s COVID-19 Vaccine,” for which she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022.

3. Assiduity

ARTIST: Sam Bates

LOCATION: Sam Houston Hotel, 1117 Prairie St. 3

“Assiduity” is dedicated to the essential workers whose critical work kept the country functioning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given that half of Americans in low-wage occupations are essential workers, it is also dedicated to No Poverty, one of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

4. King of the Road

ARTIST: Case Maclaim

LOCATION: 407 Main St.

“King of the Road,” a powerful ode to social equity and breaking boundaries, depicts a Black boy from Houston on his new bike, ready to explore his newfound freedom and the city around him. Notice the Houston hand sign painted just above the front wheel — an Easter egg from the artist, who is famous for his hand-sign murals.

5. Healthy Aging

ARTIST: Ernest Zacharevic

LOCATION: 411 Fannin St.

Inspired by the goal to promote well-being for all at all ages, “Healthy Aging” depicts community solidarity across generations and recognizes that caring for an aging population requires understanding their value and experience in the community.

6. Digital Citizen

ARTIST: Vinie Graffiti

LOCATION: 1223 Prairie St.

To highlight the importance of safe and violence-free environments for children, “Digital Citizen” raises awareness of cyberbullying and its negative impact on young people. With more children and young people spending time online, cyberbullying is the top concern for their safety when using the internet, according to the UN.