Buzzing About Murals: Heights and Downtown Edition

Buzz summer interns set out again to see more of Houston’s local murals in person. This week Jordan Miller-Mandel, Sophia Wayne and Aaron Feldstein spent time downtown and in The Heights, admiring the eccentric colors and vibrant patterns. They look forward to visiting more Houston neighborhoods and sharing their favorites.

Buzz intern Aaron Feldstein standing in front of the “Butterfly Effect” mural. Created by  #Wahl2wallinstallation site ( to see more, saerch #butterflyeffect on social media). Location: 3302 White Oak Dr. (Photo: Jordan Miller-Mandel)

Aaron’s Pick:

Butterfly Effect, located at 3302 White Oak Dr.

I thought that it was the perfect blend of complexity and elegance. The intricate designs, combined with the motivational quote really jumped out at me and made this mural the one that I wanted to pose in front of. “Be the change you want to see in the world,” is such a powerful tidbit of advice, especially for young people. I am only 19 years old, I am still impressionable, my story unwritten. Passionate and inspired art, such as this Butterfly Effect mural, can be such a powerful message to us. This mural really caught my eye because of the artistic and motivational expression it has. 

You are my Sunshine” mural by Maritza Ortega. A great uplifting message for whenever you need it. Location: 1916 Ruthland St. This one is tricky to find; it's in front of Zoe’s Kitchen, so be on the lookout for it. (Photo: Jordan Miller-Mandel)

Jordan’s Pick:

“You are my Sunshine” mural by Maritza Ortega. Location: 1916 Ruthland St.

I picked this one because I really liked the message of it. No matter what kind of day you are having, you are someone’s happiness. I liked how simple it was with a light, brown-colored wall and white block lettering with a simple flower pattern. The message comes through strong so you don’t need a lot to get the point across. It was tricky to find; if you aren’t looking for, you will miss it. It is a perfect photo opportunity with the simple wall and great message. I would encourage anyone to go check it out if you are in The Heights area.

Buzz intern Sophia Wayne standing in front of one of Collete Miller’s Angel Wings made for the Angel Wing Project. Location: 1600 Smith St.., inside and outside the office building. (Photo: Jordan Miller-Mandel)

Sophia’s Pick:

Angel Wing Project murals created by Collete Miller are located all over America. Location: 1600 Smith St., iInside and outside the office building.

Each pair of wings was different. They were different sizes and colors. I was so drawn to these wings, each and every color popped, and the more I looked at them the more I was drawn to them. I loved how each wing started off with a white border on the top, mixed with the color pattern of its wings. The largest pair of wings transitioned from a white border to an intricate and elaborate painting of purples, pinks, and blues that all blended together perfectly. The other two wings did the same. Not only was I drawn to the beautiful colors of these wings, but the message behind them is moving. The message is to remind humanity that we are the angels of this Earth. I would encourage everyone to go out to this mural to admire its beauty and also to become a part of the art, which is part of the artist's mission.                                    

See our interns' take on murals around Montrose here, and comment below to share your favorite murals around town. Also, see Graffiti as Art by Cheryl Ursin, published in June 2013, on Houston street artists and murals around town at that time.