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New mural on Elm Avenue showcases the history of east Waco

Posted at 5:27 PM, Dec 18, 2020
and last updated 2020-12-23 10:28:47-05

WACO, TX — There is a new mural in town, and it features art from local talents.

Creative Waco's ARTrenticeship Program consisted of 14 Waco ISD students who worked alongside local artists to create the new mural, "Tree of Life."

Artists say the mural aligns with the mission of many upcoming projects in east Waco.

"It was time to bring some light back into the community," said Tashita Bible, a local artist.

"Most of the time, you have newcomers and people who come into Waco who do not know the history. It's telling the stories of residents, such as the Harvey family, Dorris Miller. So you have rich history and storylines up here," said Vincent Thomas, the lead artist.

Line Denson is one of the 14 students who worked on the mural. She says the overall experience was one that taught her a lot.

"It was a lot tougher than I thought it was going to be," she said. "I like that everything was well put together, and just getting to meet local artists who are making money from art here in Waco was a great experience."

The project was also a gateway for many artists who felt stuck during the pandemic.

"During these dreary times, to be in the midst of artists, art enhances the quality of life, and to be around other artists has been life-enhancing," said Bibles.

The mural is set to be complete in January 2021.

Stay up to date with the mural here. Learn more about the Creative Waco ARTprenticeship program here.