“Serape Trail” Elysian Viaduct Bridge Underpass | #serapetrail | 2017-2021 under construction

A Permanent Site Specific Installation by Nicola Parente

For this site specific installation, “Serape Trail”, artist Nicola Parente envisioned a colorful transformation of the new Elysian Viaduct bridge reconstruction. Parente’s vision was to highlight the connection between this historic working class neighborhood and downtown by featuring the culture of its current inhabitants. Parente found his inspiration in the traditional serape blanket, especially the style from northern Mexico. As if wrapping the viaduct in a welcoming blanket, Parente selected 24 different bright colors found in traditional serapes. The choice in colors celebrates the energy of the Mexican culture. According to Parente,

“The experience of moving through this 1.5-mile long installation activates a celebration of life through color. The abstract use of the symbols of one culture’s tradition, and translating it from a static blanket to movement and connection between different parts of the city, represents the richness of the fabric of cultures that call Houston home, and the inclusivity and connectedness that results.”

The colors range from blues, to reds, pinks, fuchsia, lavenders, oranges and greens. The intent is for the design to exude the happiness and warmth that these colors represent. Alongside this colorful connector, the plan includes new connector streets and pedestrian walkways. Existing developments that will be connected by these pedestrian walkways include the St. Arnold Brewery, and Hardy & Nance Studios arts district area.

Credits: Artist Nicola Parente, Greater Northside Management District, Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT), Congresswoman Garcia, and Downtown Management District

This project includes the Houston Elysian Viaduct bridge reconstruction from Brooks to Commerce Street to improve safety, accommodate population growth, enhance mobility and improve connectivity in the local area. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is finalizing the reconstruction of the Elysian Viaduct bridge from Brooks to Commerce Street. GNMD partnered with former Senator Sylvia Garcia’s office to support the painting of the columns under the new bridge.