Mural serves as a warm welcome to downtown Anna
Anna, Texas -- The City of Anna proudly announces the completion of its first-ever public art mural installation in downtown Anna. Made possible through a $5,000 reimbursement grant from the Anice Read Fund of Communities Foundation of Texas, this project represents the city's commitment to promoting cultural enrichment and community engagement.
In November 2022, the Anna Economic Development Corporation (EDC) received the Anice Read Fund grant from the Texas Downtown Association. Artists throughout Texas were invited to submit their qualifications and the request was also posted on Public Art Exchange. By February 2023, two artists were shortlisted and asked to submit design concepts. In March 2023, Andrea Holmes was chosen by the Anna EDC to complete the project, with an expected completion date in early June.
"Public art is a transformative force that energizes our community, sparks creativity, and instills a sense of pride. The City of Anna is fully committed to investing in downtown Anna, creating a dynamic space that highlights local artists and enhances the overall experience for residents and visitors," said Joey Grisham, Director of the Anna Economic Development Corporation. "We appreciate the Anice Read Fund grant and the Downtown Texas Association for its invaluable support in making this vision a reality. Together, we are building a culturally vibrant and economically prosperous downtown Anna for everyone to enjoy."
Designed by Andrea Holmes, the mural stands as a picturesque homage to the native flora adorning both the landscapes of the Lone Star State and the City of Anna. Seamlessly integrated with the words "Welcome to Anna, Texas, Your Hometown," the mural showcases a delightful fusion of Texas wildflowers. Amongst these vibrant blossoms are the iconic bluebonnets, Blackfoot Daisy, fiery Texas Indian Paintbrush, and resilient Texas Thistle. It serves as a warm and inviting symbol of community pride and a captivating reminder of the enchanting landscapes that envelop the town.
The mural is located on the side of the former police station in downtown Anna, soon to be transformed into the 3 Nations Brewing Company, opening in early fall.
About Anna
Anna, Texas, is among the fastest-growing cities in North Texas, with a population of more than 23,900 and expected to reach 100,000 by 2050. Located in northern Collin County along U.S Highway 75, State Highway 5, and State Highway 121, Anna is a vibrant and emerging city that offers its neighbors an excellent quality of life and low cost of living. The combination of Anna's strategic location along busy thoroughfares and the quantity of undeveloped land have positioned the City as an attractive location for retail and commercial establishments. Neighbors enjoy recreational opportunities, parks, trails, open spaces, easy access to the DFW and Red River corridors and a pace of living that offers a hometown feel in a thriving community. To learn more about the City of Anna, visit www.annatexas.gov.