Let’s Create Something Beautiful.
Hi, I’m Becka and I create wall murals for homes and businesses in Austin and throughout the state of Texas.
Bring your walls to life with a hand-painted mural.
As a muralist, I aim to ignite curiosity, pique imagination, and help the community to engage with each other in a meaningful way. Art can be a tribute, an inspiration, and a celebration. Murals on a big wall or the side of a building are a way to bring art to the masses and a way of making art more accessible. I create art as a celebration of expression and a beacon of positive change.

Blog

Murals are a testament to creativity and talent, adding vibrancy to homes, businesses, and public spaces. At Murals By Becka, we understand that a mural is not just a piece of art—it's an investment. Proper care ensures that this investment retains its beauty for years to come. Below, we explore various approaches to help you keep your mural pristine by focusing on cleaning, protective coatings, and repair strategies for different surfaces. These steps will help preserve your mural’s appearance and extend its lifespan, all while honoring your unique artistic vision. The Importance of Regular Cleaning Frequent cleaning is the first step in preserving your mural. Over time, dust, grime, and indoor or outdoor pollutants can accumulate on the surface, dulling its colors and weakening its appeal. Regular dusting or gentle wiping can mitigate a majority of this buildup. The frequency of cleaning largely depends on the environment in which the mural is placed. For indoor pieces, light dusting with a soft cloth every other week may suffice. Outdoor murals might require more frequent attention due to exposure to natural elements such as sunlight, rain, or windblown dirt. Clean gently: Abrasive cleaning tools risk scratching or otherwise damaging paint, so opt instead for soft, lint-free cloths or sponges. Use mild, non-abrasive detergents: Simple mixtures of warm water and pH-neutral soap are often sufficient for everyday grime. Non-toxic, environmentally friendly cleaners can help protect painted surfaces without causing harm to local ecosystems. Test before full cleaning: Always test the cleaning solution in a discreet area first, ensuring it doesn’t discolor or strip paint. Should a stubborn stain appear, consider contacting a professional with experience in art conservation before taking any drastic steps. The wrong technique can cause more harm than good. Protective Coatings and Their Role Protective coatings play an essential role in maintaining the vibrancy of a mural by safeguarding it against UV rays, weather fluctuations, humidity, and normal wear and tear. The global paint and coatings industry continues to expand its offerings, developing advanced protective products to address the varying needs of artists and property owners. Selecting the Right Coating UV-resistant varnishes: Sunlight is a prime culprit in color fading. UV-resistant varnishes are formulated to filter out or reflect harmful rays, reducing discoloration. Anti-moisture sealants: In humid areas, moisture can infiltrate paint layers and cause cracks or mold growth. Anti-moisture sealants effectively repel water and reduce the risk of peeling. Eco-friendly options: Water-based, low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) coatings are great for reducing environmental impact and maintaining good indoor air quality. Applying the Coating Thoroughly clean the mural’s surface before application. Residue or dust trapped beneath sealant can become a permanent blemish. Use even, consistent strokes to minimize drip lines or streaking. Follow product-specific instructions regarding curing times and temperatures. Once a protective coating is applied, re-check it every few years—especially for outdoor murals. Touch up thin or worn sections when necessary to maintain a robust barrier. Informed Repairs for Different Surfaces Even with the most thorough maintenance, occasional repairs may be required to keep a mural looking fresh. Factors such as surface materials (brick, concrete, drywall) and paint types will influence repair strategies. Interior Drywall Murals Indoor murals on drywall are typically more protected from weather extremes, making them easier to fix when small imperfections arise. If you notice paint chipping or hairline cracks, lightly sand the affected area and fill any holes with spackling paste or a quality sealant before repainting. Matching the paint color precisely is key—retain a sample of the original color or note the exact paint formula. Exterior Masonry or Concrete Murals Outdoor murals on masonry often experience fluctuations in temperature and humidity. These expansions and contractions can cause the paint to crack or flake. The maintenance process involves: Gently removing flaking paint with a soft brush to avoid widening the damaged area. Filling in cracks with masonry-compatible filler. Repainting the repaired spot using matching paint. Reapplying your protective coating in the repaired area. Wooden Surface Murals Wood is susceptible to both dry rot and termite damage if not properly sealed. Inspect your wooden mural annually, focusing on areas around edges and corners where damage typically starts. Small sections of damaged wood can often be filled, sanded, and repainted. Should larger sections degrade, consult a professional to replace or reinforce the compromised wood panels before resealing. Best Practices for Long-Lasting Murals Adopting an organized maintenance regimen encourages your mural to endure beautifully—whether it’s displayed indoors in a cozy living room or outdoors on a bustling storefront. Monitor problem spots: Be vigilant about trouble areas, such as corners, edges near doors or windows, or regions susceptible to water intrusion. Quick action prevents small issues from becoming significant problems. Mind the climate: Temperature swings can lead to expansion and contraction of patterns and paint. If you notice peeling or bubbling, act promptly to re-seal or repaint those areas. Professional inspection: If you’re unsure about the extent of the damage or the required fix, consultation with a mural restoration expert can save time, money, and stress. Overly aggressive or skillfully uninformed repairs might cause further harm. Along with these steps, investing in high-quality materials from the start ensures fewer maintenance complications down the line. Murals By Becka employs top-grade paints designed for lasting color. The right combination of primer, paint, and protective coating is critical to maximizing a mural’s longevity. Keeping Your Art Part of the Conversation Maintaining a mural isn’t just about retaining vibrant colors; it’s also a testament to the value you place on creative expression. By focusing on gentle yet consistent cleaning, selecting effective protective coatings, and making informed repairs, you preserve the mural’s beauty and message. Whether you’ve commissioned a large-scale piece to greet visitors in your storefront or cherish a small mural accent in your home, consistent upkeep will protect your investment in artistry. The visual impact of a well-preserved mural continues to draw attention, build a sense of place, and foster shared community appreciation. Staying proactive in your mural’s maintenance also reflects your commitment to artistic heritage. After all, murals often carry stories, celebrate cultural icons, or highlight local landscapes. By keeping them in top shape, you’re helping ensure that future generations can experience, learn from, and take inspiration from them. And as new non-toxic or UV-protective products continue to emerge, it’s easier than ever to maintain both the environment and the integrity of your artwork. At Murals By Becka , we believe that each mural tells a narrative. With proper care, that narrative can linger for decades—reminding people of the vision, passion, and creativity that brought the artwork to life. If you’re interested in learning more about how to care for your mural or want to commission a new piece, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Transforming your outdoor living area into a true retreat is easier than you might think. With the right mural, your backyard or patio can become a personalized oasis that reflects your style and enhances every gathering or quiet moment spent outdoors. At Murals By Becka, we specialize in helping homeowners in Houston, Dallas, and beyond create stunning outdoor spaces with custom murals tailored to their unique vision. This guide will walk you through the key considerations for selecting the perfect mural for your backyard oasis, including durability, theme, and harmonious integration with nature—plus, we’ll showcase inspiring local projects to spark your imagination. Weather Durability: Ensuring Longevity for Your Outdoor Mural Outdoor murals are subject to the elements year-round, so durability is a top priority. Houston and Dallas, for example, experience high humidity, intense sun, and occasional heavy rainfall, all of which can take a toll on outdoor art if not properly prepared. That’s why selecting weather-resistant materials and expert application methods is essential. At Murals By Becka , we use high-quality, exterior-grade paints and sealants designed to withstand UV rays, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. These materials not only keep colors vibrant but also help prevent peeling and fading, so your mural remains a focal point for years to come. According to studies , murals created with premium acrylic paints and professional-grade sealers can last up to 10 years, even in challenging climates. We also recommend regular maintenance—such as gentle cleaning and occasional re-sealing—to maximize your mural’s lifespan. Our team offers guidance and support, ensuring your outdoor art investment continues to shine. Selecting a Theme: Reflecting Your Personality and Style A backyard mural should feel like an extension of your home, reflecting your personality and the atmosphere you wish to create. Consider how you use your outdoor space: Do you envision a lively entertainment area, a tranquil garden retreat, or a playful family zone? The right theme can set the tone and elevate your entire environment. Popular mural themes for outdoor spaces include: Botanical Bliss : Lush greenery, tropical foliage, or blooming florals can enhance the sense of being immersed in nature. These motifs are perfect for garden walls or poolside areas. Serene Landscapes : Panoramic views of mountains, beaches, or peaceful meadows can visually expand your space and create a calming backdrop for relaxation. Whimsical Escapes : For families with children or anyone with a playful spirit, murals featuring animals, fairytale scenes, or abstract patterns add a fun and imaginative touch. When choosing a theme, consider your existing outdoor decor and the architectural style of your home. A mural that harmonizes with your furniture, landscaping, and color palette will feel like a natural extension of your space. Integrating Natural Elements: Seamless Harmony with the Outdoors One of the most powerful ways to make an outdoor mural feel special is by integrating its design with the natural elements around it. This not only enhances the visual impact but also fosters a seamless connection between art and environment. For example, a mural of climbing vines can appear to grow from nearby planters, while a painted waterfall might seem to flow into an actual garden pond. In Houston and Dallas, where lush gardens and vibrant outdoor living are celebrated, we often collaborate with landscape designers to align mural themes with existing plantings and stonework. This approach creates a cohesive look that blurs the line between painted art and living landscape. Consider the direction of sunlight and shade throughout the day as well. A mural that incorporates shadows or highlights from surrounding trees or pergolas can evolve visually as the daylight changes, adding depth and dynamism to your backyard oasis. Inspiring Outdoor Murals in Houston and Dallas Nothing inspires us like seeing successful projects up close. At Murals By Becka, we’ve had the privilege of transforming many outdoor spaces across Houston and Dallas, each with its own unique story. In Houston’s Heights neighborhood, a family sought to brighten their patio with a mural inspired by the region’s native wildflowers. Working closely with the homeowners, we created a vibrant wall filled with bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes, seamlessly blending with their existing garden beds. The result: a cheerful, inviting backdrop for outdoor dining and gatherings. Meanwhile, in Dallas, a modern home in Lakewood wanted a touch of whimsy for their poolside cabana. The chosen design—a geometric abstraction of water and sky—reflects the home’s contemporary style while echoing the colors of the pool and landscaping. This mural not only elevates the aesthetic but also provides a unique conversation piece for guests. For more project inspiration, visit our portfolio to explore a variety of completed outdoor murals. Working with a Professional Artist: The Murals By Becka Experience Choosing to collaborate with a professional muralist ensures your vision is expertly realized and that every practical consideration is addressed. At Murals By Becka, we guide clients from concept to completion, offering personalized consultations, custom sketches, and material recommendations tailored to each outdoor setting. We understand the unique challenges of outdoor mural projects in Texas, from climate considerations to HOA guidelines, and pride ourselves on delivering artwork that is not only beautiful but also enduring and compliant. Our commitment to craftsmanship and customer satisfaction sets us apart. Ready to Transform Your Backyard? A custom mural can elevate your backyard or patio into the oasis you’ve always dreamed of. By considering weather durability, thoughtfully selecting a theme, and integrating your mural with natural features, you’ll create a space that’s both visually stunning and uniquely yours. If you’re ready to start planning your own outdoor masterpiece, contact Murals By Becka today for a free consultation. Let’s work together to bring your vision to life and make your outdoor space the highlight of your home.

Murals have long been used as powerful tools for storytelling and cultural expression. In education, they are dynamic resources to engage students and enrich learning experiences. By transforming school walls into vibrant canvases, murals can make history, culture, science, and stories come alive for students, creating an interactive and memorable educational environment. Discover the Power of Visual Learning Visual learning plays a crucial role in education, helping students to process and retain information more effectively. Murals, with their vivid imagery and storytelling potential, tap into this power. 65% of the population are visual learners, meaning they learn best by seeing information. Murals cater to this majority, providing a visually stimulating way to present educational content. Bring History to Life One of the most compelling uses of murals in schools is their ability to depict historical events. By illustrating significant moments from history, murals offer students a window into the past. For example, a mural depicting the signing of the Declaration of Independence can transport students back in time, allowing them to visualize the event and understand its importance in a way that textbooks alone may not convey. These visual representations can spark interest and inspire further research and discussion among students. Explore Culture Through Art Murals are also effective in showcasing cultural themes, celebrating diversity, and promoting inclusivity within the school environment. By featuring artwork that represents various cultures, schools can foster an appreciation for global histories and traditions. This exposure broadens students' perspectives and encourages empathy and respect for different cultures. For instance, a mural depicting traditional Mexican Dia de los Muertos celebrations can introduce students to the rich cultural heritage of Mexico, while a mural featuring elements of African art can highlight the continent's diverse artistic traditions. These murals act as cultural ambassadors, educating students about the world beyond their immediate environment. Make Science Interactive In addition to history and culture, murals can also serve as effective tools for teaching scientific concepts. By illustrating complex scientific ideas in a visually engaging manner, murals can help demystify topics that students might otherwise find abstract or challenging. A mural depicting the solar system, for instance, can provide a captivating visual aid for students learning about planets and space exploration. Envision Famous Stories Murals transform beloved stories into immersive experiences. Children can step into "Where the Wild Things Are" or explore "The Secret Garden" within school walls. Vividly depicting scenes and characters makes stories tangible, helping children grasp the narratives and internalize morals like courage, kindness, and the value of friendship. These visual reminders reinforce lessons, ensuring they resonate long after story time. Enhance School Environments Beyond their educational benefits, murals can also transform school environments, creating welcoming and inspiring spaces for students and staff. By turning drab, uninspiring walls into vibrant works of art, schools can foster a positive atmosphere that encourages learning and creativity. The photo featured here showcases Becka’s stunning map mural, painted in a school cafeteria. With colorful illustrations of notable landmarks and global themes, this artwork captures students’ imaginations and encourages them to explore new cultures, histories, and perspectives. Beyond its visual appeal, the mural fosters curiosity and promotes a sense of global awareness, making it not only an engaging centerpiece of the space, but also a valuable educational tool for students. Murals can also serve as focal points for school events, such as art shows or history fairs, providing opportunities for community engagement and showcasing student talent. As part of a broader effort to beautify school campuses, murals contribute to a more aesthetically pleasing and motivating environment. Link Murals to Curriculum To maximize the educational impact of murals, align them with the school curriculum. By collaborating with teachers, artists can create murals that complement classroom lessons and reinforce curriculum goals. This integration ensures that murals are not just decorative elements but are woven into the fabric of the school's educational mission. Murals offer a versatile and powerful tool for enhancing education in schools. By bringing history, culture, science, and stories to life, they engage students, foster creativity, and create a dynamic learning environment. As schools continue to explore innovative ways to educate and inspire, murals will undoubtedly play an increasingly important role in the educational landscape. Discover how Murals by Becka can create something wonderful for your school . Contact Becka today to discuss your vision.

Murals are one of the most dynamic ways to bring spaces to life. When done by seasoned professionals, these vibrant canvases transcend mere decoration to tell a story that resonates with viewers. From corporate offices seeking a brand-aligned visual statement to community centers showcasing local heritage, professional muralists expertly balance artistry, cultural context, and client goals. Below, we delve into five key design elements—words, landscapes, maps, flowers, and shapes—to illustrate how muralists craft compelling narratives. We’ll also explore how regional considerations, such as Texas’s iconic imagery, can add an extra dimension to these creations. Words: Establishing Identity and Voice Incorporating text into a mural offers a clear way to communicate a message, motto, or brand persona. Professional muralists work intentionally with typography to maintain visual harmony. Different typefaces convey distinct emotions, such as the energy of bold block letters or the elegance of script styles. Muralists also consider letter spacing and scaling to ensure readability from various viewpoints. For businesses, integrating slogans or taglines reinforces brand visibility, while local phrases or idioms can add an authentic voice that connects with the community. Landscapes: Immersive Scenes that Transport Landscapes in murals provide a strong sense of place by immersing viewers in environments that often reflect the identity of the surroundings. Professional muralists carefully consider scene composition, thinking about vantage points and depth through the use of lines and layers. Color modeling is also crucial, with palettes chosen to evoke specific atmospheres, such as the warmth of a desert or the serenity of rivers, influenced by season, time of day, and thematic cues. When depicting urban or natural settings, artists highlight unique characteristics like recognizable buildings or rural elements, skillfully conveying space and perspective. Maps: Honoring Place and Adventure Maps in murals offer a sense of exploration, highlighting connections and journeys. World maps can symbolize cultural diversity, often incorporating playful icons. Constellation maps convey wonder by interweaving cosmic elements with urban or natural scenes to create a reflective atmosphere. Local maps reinforce hometown pride through stylized versions of cities, regions, or states, highlighting special spots to connect with local audiences. Flowers: Nature’s Colorful Signature Flowers, one of my favorites, bring vibrant pops of color and soft organic lines, serving as a literal and figurative breath of fresh air. For professional muralists, florals offer endless design possibilities while forging an emotional bond with viewers. Texas favorites, like bluebonnets, prickly pears and purple echinacea, are a crowd pleaser. For a bold statement, large-scale petals or high-contrast bouquets can be employed, while subtle, pastel-toned arrangements offer an understated look. Furthermore, certain flowers hold cultural significance and evoke specific emotions, and knowledgeable muralists use these nuances to reinforce the mural's purpose. Shapes: Building Blocks of Visual Impact Geometric or abstract shapes can anchor a mural’s composition, add structure, or create balance. Professionals use shapes to enhance storytelling without overshadowing focal points. These can include Minimalist Geometry: Clean lines or polygonal motifs can convey modern sophistication, especially for tech offices or contemporary galleries. Abstract Accents: Variations in shape, size, and color—like concentric circles or flowing silhouettes—add visual intrigue and movement. Cultural Icons: Shapes inspired by local traditions or symbols (e.g., the Lone Star in Texas) bestow unique cultural flair. Regional Considerations: Texas as a Canvas Region is the heartbeat of any mural design, and few places offer as much vibrant diversity as Texas. From cacti-studded deserts and sprawling ranchlands to coastal sunsets and buzzing cityscapes, every corner of the state boasts a distinct visual language and fierce local pride. In Dallas, murals frequently showcase the city’s iconic skyline or pay tribute to local sports teams, instantly connecting with fans while adding a dash of Big D flair. Meanwhile, Austin’s music scene and landmarks like the 360 Bridge, Frost Tower, and the Stevie Ray Vaughan statue on Lady Bird Lake inspire lively depictions of festivals, live music crowds, and a vivid color palette that captures the city’s creative spirit. Beyond the urban hubs, designs often incorporate Texas's rich natural heritage. Wildflowers such as bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and purple coneflowers convey an immediate sense of place. At the same time, cacti, cowboy hats, and glimpses of wide-open skies evoke the state’s genuine “Lone Star” character. See It in Action For examples of how a professional muralist handles these design elements, visit Murals by Becka’s gallery . This portfolio shows how words, landscapes, maps, flowers, and shapes come together to form cohesive, narrative-rich murals with local flair. Each project demonstrates a commitment to using color, form, and subject matter in a way that complements the space and truly resonates with viewers. If you’re considering commissioning a mural, check out Murals by Becka . Professional mural painting is a potent blend of art, storytelling, and design logistics—all of which create larger-than-life statements. By carefully weaving in words, landscapes, maps, flowers, or shapes, and paying close attention to local culture, expert muralists can craft immersive stories that speak to both the heart and the eye. When approached with skill and creativity, every blank surface offers a new opportunity to help businesses, communities, and brands leave a meaningful impression on everyone who passes by.