Garland, TX – Garland residents can now enjoy a vibrant new public art installation along Miller Avenue, just west of Centerville. Local artist Eliana Davila has designed a stunning mural that adorns the entire stretch of concrete retaining wall between Parkhurst Drive and South Country Club Road, transforming the area into a colorful celebration of creativity. The painting process began earlier this month, starting with a solid pop of green. Following that, Eliana sketched the mural’s outline and implemented a numbering system, allowing community volunteers to participate in a paint-by-numbers experience.
Eliana, known for her engaging artistic style, collaborated with community volunteers, including Councilmember Carissa Dutton, to bring this mural to life through a paint-by-numbers initiative. The mural’s eye-catching design is not only a feast for the eyes but also serves a functional purpose. As art enthusiasts and passersby have noted, the mural invites them to slow down and appreciate the surroundings. This brings to mind the potential benefits of public art in urban spaces, particularly in relation to traffic patterns and pedestrian safety.
Recent studies, such as one conducted by Bloomberg Philanthropies, have shown that public art can significantly contribute to road safety. The study revealed a 17% decrease in total traffic accidents at sites where “asphalt art” was implemented, alongside notable reductions in injuries and crashes involving pedestrians and cyclists. The findings suggest that art increases the visibility of pedestrian spaces and encourages drivers to be more alert, ultimately fostering a safer environment for all road users.
As the report highlights, “The art itself is often also intended to improve safety by increasing visibility of pedestrian spaces and crosswalks, promoting a more walkable public realm, and encouraging drivers to slow down.” Eliana Davila’s mural not only beautifies Miller Road but is a unique demonstration of how art can play a vital role in community safety and cohesion.
