The mural stretches over 5000 square feet and was created by Texas-based artist Odessa Helm. The design won a city-wide vote last fall, and was painted by a team over a 30-day period with more than 43 gallons of paint. The image features colourful images from throughout Irving’s history, ranging from pioneers with covered wagons to its tradition of classic car shows. The mural was created through a partnership between the Irving Division of Housing and Redevelopment and the city’s Department of Arts and Culture, with partial funding by the Anice Read Grant. Helm said that the goal of the mural was to conjure memories of the city’s past:
“I hope people feel a sense of nostalgia when they drive by. And I hope the city gets a sense of pride and their history.”
The Timeless Irving mural was officially unveiled in a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 5. Cities often use large murals, banner printing, and other types of public art to help provide a sense of history and make downtown districts and neighbourhoods feel special. Residents are invited to visit the mural in person and share images on social media.
The Timeless Irving mural is on display at the intersection of O’Connor and Rock Island Roads in the Downtown Irving Heritage District.