As Arts District Month unfolded, one of the standout events was the 713Walk, a celebration of art, culture, and community organized by Urban Paths and sponsored by Arts District Houston. This special event invited participants on an immersive, art-filled journey through the heart of the city’s vibrant 6th ward! Held on October 26th, this event showcased some of the district’s most iconic pieces of art, while also offering a unique opportunity to engage with the stories and cultural significance behind each stop.
Led by Urban Path’s very own Laura Conely, the route highlighted works created by local artists, offering participants a chance to walk alongside art, interact with it, and hear the stories behind the pieces. Each stop along the walk revealed something new about the city’s rich history, culture, and vibrant creative community.
The Stops Along the 713Walk
Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern
The walk began at the stunning Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, a historical underground reservoir that’s been transformed into a public art space. The cool, cavernous atmosphere of the Cistern was a striking introduction to the walk, with its towering columns and echoing acoustics creating an almost otherworldly experience. Visitors were invited to explore this vast, mysterious space, which serves as a perfect canvas for large-scale installations. The Cistern’s unique character set the tone for the creative journey ahead.
St. Joseph’s Church
Next, participants were guided to St. Joseph’s Church, a Houston landmark known for its stunning stained glass windows. The church’s beauty and serene atmosphere offered a peaceful pause in the middle of the walk, as attendees admired the intricate craftsmanship of these vibrant glassworks, which tell stories of faith and community.
“A United Community” Mural
The next stop took participants to the St. Joseph’s School building, where they encountered the “A United Community” mural. Created in 1985 by 144 local children under the guidance of artists Pio Pulido and Sylvia Orozco, this 34-by-58-foot mural is a testament to the power of collective creativity. The mural’s rich colors and lively imagery convey a sense of unity, strength, and shared identity—key themes that resonate deeply within the Houston community.
Mask Wall & Cactus Sculpture
Continuing the journey, the group arrived at a vibrant cactus sculpture and water fountain, an artistic oasis that blends nature and creativity. The sculpture, designed by Alice Valdez, serves as a dynamic centerpiece, adding a touch of whimsy and life to the landscape. Nearby, an eight-foot ceramic relief mask wall created by children of the local school provided another moment of reflection, highlighting the creativity of the younger generation and the collaborative spirit of the community.
MECA (Multicultural Education and Counseling Through the Arts)
The walk then brought participants to MECA, a community-based organization dedicated to providing arts education to underserved youth. There, attendees explored the Day of the Dead altar exhibit, an intricate and colorful installation celebrating Día de los Muertos. The altar featured ofrendas—offerings to honor the spirits of the deceased—and provided a rich cultural experience that tied in beautifully with the event’s themes of remembrance and celebration.
Virgen de Guadalupe Soda Can Sculpture
Just outside MECA, participants were drawn to the Virgen de Guadalupe soda can sculpture by artist Paul Kittelson. This striking piece, made entirely of recycled soda cans, is a powerful symbol of both Mexican-American culture and environmental sustainability. The sculpture is a creative interpretation of the Virgin Mary, a central figure in Mexican culture and faith, and it serves as a reminder of the power of art to transform everyday objects into meaningful expressions of cultural pride.
Henderson and Kane Business
The next stop took participants to Henderson and Kane, a local business in the heart of the Arts District, where they admired the mural “Bringing Home With Us” by artist Royal Sumikat. The mural’s intricate design and bold colors captured the essence of Houston’s diverse, multicultural identity, bringing a sense of community pride to this local business.
Monumental Moments & Open Channel Flow Sculptures
Finally, the walk came full circle as participants returned to Buffalo Bayou Park, where they encountered two monumental sculptures: Monumental Moments by Anthony Schumate and Open Channel Flow by Matthew Geller. These impressive sculptures, set against the scenic backdrop of the bayou, were a stunning way to end the walk. Both works speak to the themes of transformation and fluidity, echoing the walk’s message of connection, community, and the ongoing flow of creative energy throughout the city.
Creating Community
The 713Walk was more than just a tour—it was an experience that brought people together from all walks of life to celebrate the power of art to connect, inspire, and transform. As participants walked through the heart of Houston’s Arts District, they discovered not only the art that adorns the walls of the district but also the stories and cultural histories that make the area so special.
Thanks to Urban Paths and our very own Arts District Houston, the event successfully highlighted the richness and diversity of Houston’s artistic community, giving attendees a deeper understanding of the people and the creativity that make the district such an integral part of the city’s cultural identity.
About Urban Paths
Laura Conely founded Urban Paths, a walking wellness company,to lead clients and groups on walks where they can experience the profound benefits of being in nature. A certified teacher and nutrition coach, Laura shares research and strategies in her office which is the outdoors. Through her coaching, Laura helps people from all walks of life explore their gifts, find their strengths and climb their obstacles.
For more information visit: urbanpaths.com
Experience the Walk for Yourself!
If you missed the 713Walk, or simply want to revisit the beauty and creativity of Houston’s Arts District, it’s never too late to explore these incredible stops. Grab a friend, take a stroll, and experience the murals, sculptures, and installations that make this area of Houston truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a casual explorer, the Arts District has something for everyone!
About Arts District Houston & Fresh Arts
Arts District Houston is one of seven state-designated cultural districts in Houston. Situated in the city center along the Washington Avenue Corridor, this colorful, urban, artist-centered community is made up of the historic First and Sixth Ward neighborhoods and is home to MECA, Buffalo Bayou Park, Sawyer Yards, and much more.
Arts District Houston is powered by Fresh Arts, a nonprofit which amplifies the district’s ability to serve artists and the greater community through artist-centered public art projects and initiatives. These initiatives help build capacity, audiences, and shared resources for the artists and creative businesses that compose the district and create new opportunities to showcase the diversity of Houston-area artists.
@artsdistrichou | @freshartsorg | www.fresharts.org
