Zarape @ Zaragoza Street

Members of Cultivarte found an area in their downtown that needed some color (and some safety for pedestrians).

The Zarape at Zaragoza Street project is a temporary mural based on a historic design pattern as well as the traditional ‘zarape’ design. We worked together as a collective and partnered with several local organizations to make this project a reality.

First, we created a design that incorporated members’ ideas, along with the materials we would need. We wanted to create a mural that would be inviting to the 10,000+ people who cross the Mexico-U.S.A. border on foot every day. The environment of the site was grim. The site is a pedestrian street which had almost no signage to direct cars away from the street. We witnessed cars accidentally driving into the street, with cautious pedestrians watching them back up after realizing this street was not meant for cars. We designed the mural to have bright colors and be visible to oncoming traffic.

Next, we took that proposal and presented it to the City of Laredo, including the Traffic Department, Utilities Department, Environmental Services Department, TIRZ 1, and City Council District VIII. Councilmember Roberto Balli of District VIII supported the funding of the project and the departments facilitated the resources needed. We were able to complete our project over the course of a weekend.

A dozen volunteers worked late nights and early mornings to plan and finalize the mural. We measured the geometric design and got creative with chalk and spray paint. We experimented with different methods and used this experience to learn techniques for future projects.

Finally, we were ready to plan a party! Numerous local businesses came together to support our efforts for a night of food, drinks, music, and mariachis:

• City Makery

• La Posada Hotel

• Laredo Main Street

• Street Sweets & Eats

• Fresco’s Shaved Ice & Snack Bar

• Lolita’s Bistro

• Kirby-Q

• L&F

• able.city