Art is a universal language, a force that transcends spoken words and cultural barriers to forge connections between people. Houston-based visual artist Alex Arzú understands this deeply, having witnessed the power of his murals to unite communities. His latest project with Culture of Health-Advancing Together (CHAT), a program of the Mid-America Arts Alliance, exemplifies how art can foster connection and dialogue around mental health.
Connecting Through Art
Alex Arzú was invited by CHAT director Dr. Aisha Siddiqui to lead a project focused on mental health awareness at a Houston middle school. Through interactive workshops and mural painting, he engaged with students, many of whom come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds where emotional well-being is often an overlooked topic.
“It really touched me in the sense that through art, I could always see that you don’t need language to connect with a person,” Alex shares. “I went in without expectation. I really wanted my idea for this piece to come from the students or be inspired by their school.”
During the workshops, Alex shared his personal experiences with mental health and how creating art had been a form of self-care for him. He emphasized that art doesn’t require expensive materials—sometimes all it takes is a pencil and a piece of paper.
“I talked to the students about how creativity can be an accessible source of happiness. I’m not a mental health expert, but I do know the simple gratification that comes from drawing and expressing yourself,” Alex says.
Growth Through Connection
After working closely with the students, Alex designed and painted a mural titled Growth Through Connection. The artwork features children engaging in a three-way high-five, symbolizing unity and encouragement. He also incorporated a blue heron, a bird native to Houston, which serves as a representation of resilience and tranquility.
“With all the things we Houstonians have been through, I always notice the blue heron is out there, doing its own thing, staying calm. It’s something to focus on in times of turmoil,” Alex explains.
The mural-making process became a communal experience. Students, teachers, and staff eagerly observed its progress, with one memorable moment where an entire playground of students cheered as Alex worked. The project, though completed in just two weeks, left an enduring impact on the school and its students.
Art as a Catalyst for Conversation
For Alex, art is more than just an aesthetic addition to a space; it is a catalyst for dialogue and reflection.
“Art is a way to engage in social and community topics while also beautifying a space,” Alex says. “It sparks conversation. Someone looks at a piece, forms an opinion, and then a discussion begins. That’s one of the most beautiful things about it.”
He believes in bringing art to places where it is not always accessible, ensuring that creativity is not a privilege but a shared resource. This philosophy has driven his career, from creating murals to experimenting with technology in art, including augmented reality and coding. Alex is now establishing a nonprofit aimed at integrating art and technology in schools, making creative tools more available to students.
The Gulfton Story Trail
Growth Through Connection is part of the Gulfton Story Trail, a collection of 18 large-scale murals celebrating the diversity of Houston’s Gulfton neighborhood. Created by local street artists, these murals reflect the voices and cultures of the community. Originally launched as a pilot program under Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner’s Complete Communities Initiative, the project has since received support from various organizations, including the Houston Health Department, LISC Houston, Houston in Action, and the Hogg Foundation through Asian American Attaining Awareness (AAAA).
These murals serve as visual narratives of the neighborhood’s resilience and richness, offering both inspiration and a sense of belonging to residents and visitors alike.
A Lifelong Journey in Art
Reflecting on his journey, Alex recalls moments of doubt about the significance of his work.
“I used to think, ‘Why does anyone need this? I might be good at it, but why does anybody need it?’” he says. “I would draw and put my work under my bed where no one could see it. Then a friend told me, ‘Man, you’ve got to show people this.’”
Since then, Alex has embraced his role as an artist, continually evolving his craft and sharing his knowledge. Whether through murals, paintings, tattoos, or digital experiences, his work continues to create spaces for reflection, expression, and connection.
“It’s a learning process always,” he says. “I feel like I’m always learning, and I want to share that.”
To learn more about Alex Arzú and his work, visit [his website] or explore the Gulfton Story Trail through a self-guided map here.
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