Mural by nationally renowned Ink Dwell studio to showcase migratory birds of Houston’s major waterways
Confluence in Progress Photo credit: Anthony Rathbun, Houston Parks Board
Houston Parks Board and Buffalo Bayou Partnership are pleased to announce a new public art installation along the Bayou Greenway trail at the confluence of White Oak and Buffalo Bayous, just below the University of Houston-Downtown’s historic One Main Building. The mural, created by artist Jane Kim, co-founder of Ink Dwell studio, showcases the birds that call Houston’s bayous home.
Titled Confluence, the mural tells a 12-month story of Houston’s migratory birds. Its name refers to the way in which many birds change color seasonally to attract mates. At the center are six species represented in both their spring breeding plumage and their non-breeding plumage. On the right are three species that winter in Houston; on the left are three species that arrive in the spring to breed. A map of Houston’s bayous serves as the backdrop to bring movement and energy to the work.
“Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the United States,” says artist Jane Kim, “and that’s not just limited to its people. The region’s wetlands attract a spectacular array of bird life and Confluence is a monument to that beauty and diversity.”
“We are excited to see work begin on Confluence and enliven this vital corridor with accessible public art,” said Beth White, President and CEO of Houston Parks Board. “The bayous define our city, bringing wildlife and nature to our own backyards. We hope that this mural will be a focal point for trail users and encourage Houstonians to learn more about the waterways that make Houston unique.”
Measuring 223 feet in length, the mural will span the wall along the confluence of White Oak Bayou Greenway and Buffalo Bayou trail (mere steps away from the University of Houston-Downtown) and enrich the experience of cyclists, pedestrians, students, and commuters who use the trail daily. Central to both the bayou system and downtown Houston, Confluence will also be visible to nearby office buildings and the University of Houston-Downtown campus. Installation began in early March 2021 and is expected to take four to six weeks to complete.
“Confluence is an ideal example of Buffalo Bayou Partnership’s ongoing commitment to public art,” said Anne Olson, President of Buffalo Bayou Partnership. “Ink Dwell studio’s depiction of Houston’s native birds provides a beautiful contrast to the urban character of this downtown site. We are pleased to be a part of this collaboration.”
“This public art project is another example of why the Houston Parks system is one of the best in the nation,” said Kenneth Allen, Interim Director, Houston Parks and Recreation Department. “The synergy between nature and art with this installation on the trail will be a welcoming landmark for all who see it. Our thanks to all the partners who’ve made it possible.”
As with Bayou Greenways, this mural is a product of the extraordinary public/private partnership between City of Houston and Harris County, along with voters and philanthropists with a particular thanks to Tom and Laura Bacon.
“This mural is about celebrating Bayou Greenways and discovering Houston’s amazing position in the center of North America’s largest migratory flyway,” said Laura Bacon. “One day, Houston will be known as the only major city in America where you can eat at an award-winning restaurant on Saturday night, stay in a wonderful hotel, and see 128 species of birds before noon on the following morning, Tom and I are thrilled to support Confluence.”
Confluence is commissioned by Houston Parks Board and hosted in collaboration with Buffalo Bayou Partnership. The mural project has also engaged with Houston Audubon to provide ornithological expertise and programmatic direction. Houston Parks Board serves as project manager on the installation and is responsible for ongoing maintenance of this portion of the Bayou Greenways system.
“Houston’s birdlife is rich and varied, in color, shape, and song,” said Helen Drummond, Houston Audubon’s Executive Director. “Birds are an important part of our natural landscape, and because they can be seen all around us, they are a great way to connect with nature. We are thrilled to see the beauty and inspiration birds can bring to our lives shared through this mural.”
For more information on Confluence and associated programming, please visit houstonparksboard.org and follow Houston Parks Board, Buffalo Bayou Partnership, and Houston Audubon on social media.