San Antonio, November 21, 2025
San Antonio has unveiled a new public artwork titled ‘Kindred’, a 20-foot-tall steel sculpture by local artist Ashley Perez. Situated along the World Heritage Trail, the mural symbolizes unity and celebrates the cultural heritage of the community. The dedication took place during Native American Heritage Month, honoring local ancestors and emphasizing the city’s indigenous roots. This artwork reflects the enduring spirit of the community and the connections that bind its diverse history.
San Antonio Unveils “Kindred” Mural Celebrating Cultural Heritage
A New Symbol of Unity and Resilience in the Community
San Antonio, Texas – A new public artwork titled “Kindred” was dedicated on November 14, 2025, along the World Heritage Trail in San Antonio’s South Side. The 20-foot-tall steel sculpture, created by local artist Ashley Perez, features two hands emerging from rippling water, symbolizing unity and the enduring spirit of the community. The artwork was inspired by the hands of Mission San José descendant Vincent Huizar, honoring his legacy and that of other local ancestors. The dedication ceremony occurred during Native American Heritage Month, emphasizing the city’s deep indigenous roots. The project was a collaboration between the City of San Antonio’s Department of Arts & Culture, the World Heritage Office, and community partners, including the Mission San José Neighborhood Association and the National Park Service. “Kindred” stands as a testament to the connections that bind the community together, reflecting the shared history and cultural identity of the South Side.
Background and Significance
The “Kindred” mural is part of a broader initiative to enhance the World Heritage Trail through public art, aiming to celebrate and preserve the rich cultural heritage of San Antonio’s South Side. The artwork’s design was influenced by the hands of Mission San José descendant Vincent Huizar, who passed away earlier in the week, adding a personal and poignant element to the piece. The dedication during Native American Heritage Month highlights the city’s commitment to honoring its indigenous roots and the contributions of Native communities. The collaboration with local organizations and community members ensured that the mural authentically represents the stories, history, and cultural identity of the area.
Community Engagement and Collaboration
The creation of “Kindred” involved close collaboration with various community partners, including the Mission San José Neighborhood Association, Mission Descendants, and the National Park Service. This engagement ensured that the mural authentically represents the stories, history, and cultural identity of the local community. The dedication ceremony was attended by community members, local leaders, and descendants of the Tehuan Band of Mission Indians, reflecting the mural’s deep connection to the area’s indigenous heritage. The project underscores the importance of community involvement in public art initiatives and the role of art in fostering unity and cultural pride.
Previous Public Art Initiatives in San Antonio
San Antonio has a rich history of public art that celebrates its diverse cultural heritage. In April 2025, the Pearl district unveiled the “Agua y Comunidad” mural by renowned Chicano artist Joe Lopez, reflecting the neighborhood’s historic connection to water. In March 2024, the city celebrated its Tejano and Conjunto music heritage with the “Orgullo Tejano” sculpture by local artist Luis Lopez, located along Historic Old Highway 90. These initiatives, along with “Kindred,” contribute to the city’s vibrant public art scene and its commitment to honoring and preserving cultural traditions.
About the World Heritage Trail
The World Heritage Trail is a designated route in San Antonio that connects several historic missions, including Mission San José, Mission San Juan, Mission Espada, and Mission Concepción. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the trail highlights the city’s rich colonial history and cultural significance. Public art installations along the trail, such as “Kindred,” aim to enhance the visitor experience and celebrate the diverse cultural narratives of the area.
About the Artist
Ashley Perez is a San Antonio-based artist known for her large-scale public art installations that explore themes of identity, community, and cultural heritage. Her work often incorporates elements of the city’s history and indigenous roots, reflecting a deep connection to the local community. “Kindred” is her first public artwork along the World Heritage Trail, marking a significant contribution to San Antonio’s public art landscape.
Dedication Ceremony and Community Response
The dedication ceremony for “Kindred” was attended by community members, local leaders, and descendants of the Tehuan Band of Mission Indians, reflecting the mural’s deep connection to the area’s indigenous heritage. The event highlighted the community’s appreciation for public art and its role in fostering unity and cultural pride. The mural has been well-received by residents and visitors alike, serving as a symbol of the community’s resilience and shared history.
Future Public Art Projects in San Antonio
San Antonio continues to invest in public art projects that celebrate its diverse cultural heritage. Upcoming initiatives include murals and sculptures that honor the city’s indigenous roots, colonial history, and contemporary cultural expressions. These projects aim to engage the community, attract visitors, and contribute to the city’s vibrant arts scene. The success of “Kindred” has inspired further collaborations between artists, community organizations, and city officials to create public art that reflects the rich tapestry of San Antonio’s history and culture.
Visitor Information
Visitors interested in viewing “Kindred” can find the mural along the World Heritage Trail near the intersection of Mission and Huff at 3201 Mission Rd, San Antonio, TX 78214. The mural is accessible to the public and serves as a testament to the community’s enduring spirit and cultural heritage. For more information about the World Heritage Trail and other public art installations in San Antonio, visitors can contact the City of San Antonio’s Department of Arts & Culture.
About San Antonio’s Public Art Initiatives
San Antonio’s public art initiatives are managed by the Department of Arts & Culture, which collaborates with local artists, community organizations, and residents to create artworks that reflect the city’s diverse cultural heritage. These projects aim to enhance public spaces, engage the community, and attract visitors. The Department of Arts & Culture also offers programs and resources to support artists and promote the arts in San Antonio.
Contact Information
For more information about “Kindred” and other public art projects in San Antonio, please contact the City of San Antonio’s Department of Arts & Culture at (210) 207-6960.
FAQ
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Key Features of the “Kindred” Mural
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 3201 Mission Rd, San Antonio, TX 78214, along the World Heritage Trail |
| Height | 20 feet tall |
| Artist | Ashley Perez |
| Symbolism | Unity and the enduring spirit of the community, honoring local cultural heritage |
| Collaborators | City of San Antonio’s Department of Arts & Culture, World Heritage Office, local organizations |
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