Following a community unveiling ceremony on August 19, The Woodlands Arts Council (TWAC) unveiled The Art of Gratitude, a new permanent public mural at the Kevin Brady Community Center. Created by acclaimed artist Marlo Saucedo, the two-panel, 6-by-6-foot mural is woven with heartfelt messages of gratitude submitted by community members, transforming their words into a vibrant work of public art that celebrates gratitude, connection, and the shared values that unite The Woodlands.
TWAC unveils The Art of Gratitude | Photos courtesy of TWAC
The Art of Gratitude Mural
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY
Using her signature word-based painting style, Saucedo incorporated messages celebrating family, freedom, friendship, nature, creativity, and community throughout the mural's composition, inviting visitors to discover new words and stories each time they experience the artwork. One message featured in the mural reads:
"Thank you for being a community that sees the value in beauty, expression, and imagination. It is a privilege to share this space with you."
HOW IT BEGAN
The project was launched with a $1,776 grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts, with support from the National Endowment for the Arts, in recognition of America's 250th anniversary. The Woodlands Arts Council extends its gratitude to both organizations for supporting the creation of this permanent public artwork.
Community support brought the project fully to life through TWAC's Giving Tuesday campaign. Donors helped fund the mural while contributing messages of gratitude that became an integral part of the artwork.
"Public art has the power to tell the story of a community," said Jenny Carattini-Wright, Executive Director & CEO of The Woodlands Arts Council. "What makes The Art of Gratitude especially meaningful is that it wasn't created only for the community; it was created with the community. Every message represents a personal expression of gratitude, and together they have become a lasting work of art that reflects the spirit of The Woodlands."
A LASTING REMINDER
The mural continues TWAC's commitment to expanding access to public art while creating meaningful opportunities for community participation. As a permanent installation at the Kevin Brady Community Center, The Art of Gratitude will serve as a lasting reminder of the generosity, gratitude, and community spirit that brought the project to life.
