Get to know the artist behind the mural! Houston artist Alex Arzú discusses his favorite Houston mural, his experience working in different mediums, and more in the interview below.
Which came first, street art or tattooing? How did you start painting murals and public art installations?
I started doing murals in schools and residences when I was 15, I was able to paint professionally at 18. Actually, my first professional public-facing mural gig is off of Fry Rd. & Misty Cove and is still there. So, the order of things would be indoor and external murals, tattooing then street art and public art installations.
Your art is featured on mini murals all over Houston. Can you elaborate on your experience with UP Art Studio’s Mini Murals program?
In 2005, I collaborated with UP Art Studio, in the pilot program, through mutual friends and conversation. They wanted an artist that was able to do the job and would be dependable. Elected officials and community leaders approved of the beautification project and more funding has been allocated to sustaining this program. It began as a way to make art accessible to communities that didn’t typically have access.
Can you share your inspiration behind the mini mural pictured here?
I pulled together geometry and patterns, feathers inspired the conception of this mural. So, the inspiration is that two things meet and can coexist. The color palette is based on a piece of art that I was looking at and they’re not normally the colors I would choose. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone with this design, in regards to the color and composition. I intended every side of this mini mural to be able to be a standalone piece, but also a part of a larger more cohesive work. Each side gives a different visual experience, there are no negative spaces, and movement and fluidity inspired the design.
What is your favorite Houston mural?
I have a complex relationship with my Latinidad, which could be its own conversation. I like how Leo Tanguma’s “The Rebirth of Our Nationality”, on Canal Street in Houston, across from SMOM has deep roots for the Mexican-American community of Houston. The sense of permanence and cultural appreciation for the community resonates with me.
Who is your favorite local artist? All-time favorite artist (or artist who has influenced you the most)?
My favorite local artist is Emily Ding, right now, I am unsure if she has work in Houston currently, but her style, color palette, and use of nature appeal to me. My all-time favorite would be, Shepard Fairy, more for his business acumen.
As an artist who works with different mediums, do you have any advice for artists interested in translating their work to large-scale murals and installations?
I would say, don’t be afraid to use multiple mediums. Don’t feel like you have to learn everything about the medium to use it, just use it. If you want to be a muralist or a freestyle artist you’ll need to understand your body’s capabilities and range of motion. Creating lines, and shapes have everything to do with understanding your limitations are based on your body’s abilities.
Are you working on any upcoming projects you’d like to share?
There is a mural in an outdoor shopping center in August. There is also merchandise, collaborations, and other projects in the pipeline. Follow me on instagram @alexarzu to receive updates.
To learn more about Alex’s work, visit alexarzu.com.