ABOUT THE MURAL

The “Prairie View” mural was created to honor the rich history, vibrant culture, and enduring resilience of the city of Prairie View and the university. Painted on the side of our Prairie View FCU building, the mural reflects the traditions and spirit that continue to inspire pride, unity, and progress within the community.

THE DESIGN

Artist Aliya Beechum, a graduate of Prairie View A&M University, drew inspiration from Prairie View’s history and her personal connection to the city and university. Within the mural, you’ll find symbolic elements, such as historic moments, homecoming traditions, the trail ride, the Marching Storm, education that leads to limitless possibilities, and notable landmarks that highlight the unique identity of Prairie View. Each detail was chosen to represent the milestones, memories, and hope for the future that bring the community together.

THE MEANING

For Aliya, this mural was not only an artistic challenge to create a beautiful piece for the Prairie View community but also an opportunity to give back to a community that helped shape her. Along the way, she connected with residents, university staff, and students whose encouragement fueled her passion and a spirit of “community” that is represented in her mural artwork. Aliya hopes the mural will stand as a lasting tribute to both the city and the university, serving as a source of pride for all who see it.

 
 

ABOUT THE ARTIST - ALIYA BEECHUM

The Artist: Aliya Beechum
College: Prairie View A&M University
Degree: Bachelor’s in Digital Media Arts (Spring 2023)

Aliya’s passion for art began in elementary school, inspired by her brother, Earl, who drew daily and created countless unique characters. With her family’s encouragement, she continued developing her creativity and art, which would lead to her decision to pursue a degree in Digital Media Arts at Prairie View A&M University in 2019.

Her artistic journey grew during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she began painting for friends and family. By her senior year, she was showcasing her work in art shows on campus and selling pieces locally. After graduation, she expanded her reach by participating in art shows around Houston and sharing her portfolio on social media.

Aliya dreams of one day working in a museum, focusing on curation, exhibition design, and African American art research, while also having her own artwork on display.

ARTIST’S WORDS ABOUT THE MURAL:
  • Inspiration for the Project:
    “My inspiration came from Prairie View’s history and the community. I wanted to create something beautiful that would give back to the place I called home for four years.”
  • Favorite Part of the Project:
    “Meeting and connecting with so many people in the community. Their encouragement kept me going and motivated me to finish the project.”
  • What She Hopes People See:
    “I want people to see the hard work and love for the community that went into this mural. Being the first artist to paint a ‘Prairie View’ mural is an honor.”
  • Inspiration for the Project:
    “I hope the community feels a connection with the mural, whether it’s through memories they made here or a sense of pride they have for this place and the people.”
 
 

EXPLORE ALIYA’S WORK