Downtown Nacogdoches Mural
Amanda Raby, a proud 7th Generation Daughter of the Republic of Texas, draws upon her deep ancestral ties to Nacogdoches, the oldest town in Texas, as inspiration for a timeless mural. This monumental 57'x15' artwork, commissioned by the Main St. Improvement District, stands as a cherished hometown legacy, celebrating the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of Nacogdoches.
Karen Tubby was my #1 support and volunteer. Her line-work was impeccable and she is a joy to work with!
The inspiration
In the spring of 2018, I found myself residing in a secluded cabin nestled deep within the woods, just beyond the bustling town of my hometown, Nacogdoches, Texas. Surrounded by the lush woodland landscape, adorned with a myriad of enchanting mushroom treasures, I couldn't help but be captivated by their mystical allure and the profound healing properties they symbolized.
When I learned that the Main Street Improvement District was soliciting design proposals for the mural, I felt spiritually obligated to make a submission. It was clear to me from the outset that these magical fungi would serve as a central motif in the mural's design, weaving a thread of natural wonder and therapeutic resonance throughout the artwork.
As I delved deeper into the creative process, I felt compelled to honor the rich tapestry of local lore and culture that defined the essence of our community. Drawing inspiration from the legendary tales of Father Marjil, the iconic Christmas tree farms that dotted the countryside, the rhythmic drumming of woodpeckers echoing through the forest, and the graceful presence of foxes roaming the land, I sought to infuse the mural with a sense of timeless storytelling and whimsical charm.
My journey into the world of art, culture, and education was deeply influenced by my beloved grandmother, Anna Mary Motley. She was a woman ahead of her time and instilling in me a profound appreciation for creativity and the beauty of diverse cultures. One cherished photograph from 1923 captures her and her fellow East Texas debutantes adorned in exquisite geisha attire, a testament to the young Southern debutantes openness to embracing different traditions and the Japanese influence on East Texas culture.
Moreover, I felt a deep connection to Nacogdoches' renowned botanical beauty, particularly the vibrant blooms of its famous azaleas, which painted the landscape in hues of pink and crimson each spring. The meandering creeks, Banita and Lanana, which flowed through the heart of town, added another layer of depth and movement to the mural's narrative, symbolizing the ebb and flow of life and the interconnectedness of all things.
In weaving together these diverse elements, my aim was to create not just a mural, but a living tapestry that reflected the soul of our community and celebrated the timeless beauty and resilience of nature.
I developed custom typography and illustrations in Adobe Illustrator using a grid system that mapped onto the wall. Later I used a projector to pencil and paint with my beloved volunterrs.
the design
A fascinating interplay between Japanese aesthetics and the burgeoning Art Nouveau and Arts and Crafts movements were trending in the South from the late 1800s into the early 20s. The main typography and character styling pay homage to the intricate beauty of Japanese Art Nouveau, while incorporating more traditional supporting typography reminiscent of the era.
I infused the design with a contemporary twist and introduced elements of modern pop-styling. Iconographic Christmas trees, circular plant-forms, and a fresh, contemporary typeface added a playful yet sophisticated touch to the composition, bridging the gap between past and present.
Dividing the composition into segments using tall pine tree trunks not only added visual interest but also served as natural section dividers, seamlessly blending the windows into the design. This thoughtful approach not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the mural but also imbued it with layers of meaning and storytelling, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in its rich tapestry of visual delights.
the execution
The creative journey for this mural began with a humble rough sketch, which I meticulously refined and brought to life using Adobe Illustrator. With painstaking attention to detail, I tailored the typography and seamlessly integrated additional elements until the 54-inch composition emerged in its full glory.
Upon finalizing the design through thorough proofing and minor revisions, I embarked on the monumental task of translating the 54-inch concept to a grand scale of 54 feet. Utilizing a projector and grid system, I meticulously sketched out the design, ensuring every detail remained true to the original vision. With the groundwork laid, I eagerly commenced the painting process, wielding durable mural paints engineered to withstand the elements and stand the test of time.
Today, this monumental mural stands as a beloved centerpiece in the heart of Nacogdoches, capturing the imagination of all who behold it. It serves as a timeless tribute to my hometown, paying homage to the indomitable spirit of my ancestors and embodying the vibrant essence of East Texas for generations to come.
