Doesn’t the name La Fuente en Calle Segunda evoke images of vibrant culture? La Fuente en Calle Segunda, also known as The Spring of Second Street. It represents a piece of Austin’s soul.
Today we’re standing before La Fuente en Calle Segunda. This sculpture embodies Austin’s rich diversity and multiculturalism.
The Republic Square Mural Sculpture stood proudly in the park. It was here from March 2023 to May 2023. It served as a beacon. It represented Austin’s diversity and multiculturalism. The selected artists showcased important moments in Austin’s past, present, and future. They did this through their unique perspectives in honor of Black History Month, Women’s History Month, and Austin’s Mexican-American Heritage Corridor.
Richard Samuel, founder of RichesArt Gallery, shared his enthusiasm. He spoke about the opportunity to highlight key aspects of Austin that make it great. His art expresses nostalgia and self-identity. He is committed to diversifying Austin’s art scene. He brings work from underrepresented communities to the forefront.
Samuel’s piece Field of Dreams depicted Downs-Mabson Field. This was a significant place in baseball history. It was once the home field of the Austin Black Senators. Willie Wells, a famous Senator, graced this field. Other notable players included Satchel Paige, Smokey Joe Williams, Willie Mays, and Buck O’Neil.
Bryana Iglesias, an Austin-based artist, also contributed to the mural sculpture. Her work explores the connection between energy and form through reflection, headspace, and emotion. Iglesias draws inspiration from her Peruvian and Mexican roots.
Her painting Georgia in Time captured a portrait of Georgia O’Keeffe. It interpreted one of her paintings. Iglesias invited viewers to reflect on women and their rights during Women’s History Month.
Ernesto Hernández Ramírez, also known as “cheché”, brought his muralist experience to the project. He sees murals as his first love in the arts. His art is inspired by his Indigenous/Native American roots.
Ramírez’s piece Music and Protest, Flor y Canto, paid homage to Mexican singers. José Alfredo Jiménez and Pedro Infante performed in Austin. Jiménez is known as the OG of Mariachi music. Camilo Cantu, a master of the accordion in the Conjunto / Tex-Mex genre, was also honored.
The Republic Square Mural Sculpture is a part of the Downtown Austin Alliance’s Writing on the Walls program.
La Fuente en Calle Segunda reminds us of Austin’s vibrant artistic spirit. It encourages dialogue and celebrates cultural heritage. Take a moment to reflect on the stories embedded in this artwork. It represents the heart and soul of Austin.