San Antonio's new “Heirlooms: Eastside Pride” mural pays tribute to the Civil Rights era. (Molly the Cat/Unsplash+).
A new mural dedicated to the Civil Rights era was unveiled in San Antonio’s East Side neighborhood. The artwork is particularly poignant, as February marks the 100th anniversary of Black History Month.
San Antonio’s East Side has received a vibrant splash of color courtesy of Kaldric Deshon Dow, a local artist who specializes in “representing African American culture through rich artistic expression.” Dow painted a 600-foot-long mural, titled “Heirlooms: Eastside Pride,” between Chestnut and Cherry Streets along the Nolan Street underpass. The project took him about a month to complete and pays homage to both the tribulations of the Civil Rights era, as well as the Black art, fashion, and music that arose during that time. Myra Hemmings and Reverend Raymond A. Callies are two of the notable local legends adorning the mural.
Speaking about his inspiration for the collage style he chose for the project, Dow said, “This mural brings together colorful patterns and imagery inspired by the revolutionary spirit of the ‘60s and ‘70s.” He added, “My hope is that it fills people with a sense of empowerment and a deeper connection to the community. I wanted to create something that feels both familiar and uplifting, while still sparking a sense of wonder through the pattern work.”
Dow suggests visiting the mural multiple times to take in the full effect of his creative design. The artwork was supported by the Inner City Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone, along with City Council District Two and the City of San Antonio Department of Arts & Culture. District Two Councilmember Jalen McKee-Rodriguez spoke highly of Dow’s artistry and of the importance of remembering this period of Black history, especially ahead of the 100th anniversary of Black History Month this February.
Dow’s mural is a celebration of Black art ahead of Black History Month
Speaking about Kaldric Deshon Dow’s striking “Heirlooms” art piece, District Two Councilmember Jalen McKee-Rodriguez said, “This artwork is more than a beautiful addition to the Eastside — it’s a powerful tribute to a transformative era in Black history and a reflection of the enduring spirit of this community.” He added, “Kaldric’s work captures the pride, creativity, and resilience that continue to define the Eastside, and we are honored to help bring this meaningful piece to the public.”
The timing of the mural’s unveiling coincides with upcoming Black History Month celebrations in San Antonio. Another expression of Black art is planned for February 19-March 27 at the Carver Gallery located within the Carver Community Cultural Center. From now until February 13, artist Maverick Pascal’s “Expansion of Home” is being exhibited. That piece is a reflection of mental health, belonging, and the evolution of the concept of home
Then, from February 19 through March 27, there will be an exhibit dedicated to the work of Tyson Davis, including pieces inspired by large-scale murals. If you would like more information, please click here. Additional Black History Month celebrations can be found at this link.
