New 'Legacy' mural at UHCL demonstrates Art School’s distinctive community connection

The new mural at the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL), titled ‘Legacy,’ is a captivating addition to the Bayou Building. Located between the Patio Café and the Art Gallery, this vibrant artwork was created by local artist Jacob Messa, who has collaborated with UH-Clear Lake on several art initiatives over the past year. The central figure in the mural is an astronaut, which is a tribute to Messa’s daughter, whose sense of wonder and love for nature inspired the piece. Messa used a carefully selected color palette to reflect UHCL’s colors while adding a dynamic sense of movement and vibrancy to the mural.

“The mural I painted draws inspiration from my role as a father and the profound privilege of shaping the next generation,” said Messa. “The astronaut, resembling my daughter, symbolizes personal legacy and the potential impact each of us can have,” he explained. “She guides a young hawk, representing UHCL students, on their journey to realizing their full potential. I incorporated flowers and movement to illustrate the dynamic and organic nature of life, reflecting our collective journey and the marks we leave for those who follow.”

Dr. David Moya, Director of UHCL’s Art School for Children and Young Adults, emphasized the university’s mission to enhance the campus environment and inspire wonder within the community.

“We had 12 middle school and high school students assist with the mural,” said Moya. “We knocked this project out in a week,” he continued. “I want kids to have a good memory making art.”

The uniqueness of UHCL’s Art School is that it connects college students in the EC-12 Art Education program directly to the community.

“According to colleagues from other universities, such a program is foreign,” said Moya.

This approach enriches the campus with artistic projects and fosters memorable experiences for young artists. By bridging the gap between college students and the community, UHCL’s Art School offers a groundbreaking model that enriches both student education and community engagement.

For more information about UHCL’s Art School, visit www.uhcl.edu/childrens-art-school/.