From Murals to Monuments: Find the Hidden Gems in Corpus Christi’s Public Art Collection
Creating a Vibrant Community with Arts and Culture
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX — In 1987, the citizens of Corpus Christi took a visionary step by voting to establish the Municipal Public Art Program, which is managed by the Arts & Cultural Commission. Since then, the City of Corpus Christi, in partnership with its residents, has been dedicated to enriching Corpus Christi’s identity as a vibrant arts hub. By acquiring outstanding artworks in a variety of media from local, regional, and international artists, the program not only elevates the city's cultural landscape but also fosters a lasting legacy of art and culture. This initiative enhances the quality of life for all who live, work, and visit Corpus Christi, reinforcing its role as a regional leader in the arts.
The City’s Public Art Collection comprises 79 public artworks, with Queen of the Sea being the first commissioned artwork, created in 1914, and Stay Together, Breathe being the most recent, commissioned in 2018.
Our most famous piece is Mirador de la Flor, the bronze statue honoring Tejano superstar Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, which has been visited by thousands from around the world since 1997.
“Our City’s Public Art Collection has created a vibrant, inclusive, and engaging community for residents and visitors,” said Parks & Recreation Director Robert Dodd. “It contributes more than adding beauty to the world around us; it also inspires creativity and helps us learn about the city’s unique history and cultural identity.”
Corpus Christi is home to internationally renowned living artists, Kent Ullberg and William Wilhelmi, whose works are in the collection.
The City’s Public Art Program, guided by the Arts & Cultural Commission, helps bring color, culture, and creativity to our community. From sculptures and murals to memorials and interactive installations, these works truly tell the story of the Coastal Bend.
In 1987, Corpus Christi became one of the first Texas cities to enact the ‘Percent for Art Program’ ordinance, which incorporates artwork in the design of its civic spaces and capital projects.
The Corpus Christi Parks & Recreation Department invites you to explore its dynamic Public Art Program by visiting our libraries, parks, and other public spaces, learning more through our online flipbook, and interacting with our virtual map.
For more information about the City’s Public Art Collection, contact Eleanor Miceli at 361-826-3828 or ACCartsgrants@cctexas.com.
Learn more about Corpus Christi’s Public Art Collection.
Visit our Website at: https://cctx.info/publicart
View the Flipbook at: https://cctexas-public-art.netlify.app/
Explore the Interactive Map at: www.corpuschristitx.gov/public-art-interactive-map
