SUGAR LAND, Texas – February 13, 2026 — The City of Sugar Land Civic Arts Division, in partnership with First Colony Mall, is pleased to announce the selection of artist Sylvia Blanco for a commissioned mural project at First Colony Mall. With more than thirty submissions, the call for artists sought proposals that celebrate family, community, and togetherness, while drawing inspirations from Sugar Land's distinctive culture, environment and landscape. This partnership aims to beautify spaces, increase customer engagement, and create a positive atmosphere through art.
"Public art plays a critical role in shaping how people experience and connect with a place," said Sharee Davis, civic arts manager. "This partnership with First Colony Mall allows us to bring meaningful, high-quality artwork into one of Sugar Land's most active community spaces. Sylvia Blanco's work reflects the warmth, diversity, and sense of togetherness that define our city, and situating this mural near a family-centered area, like the indoor playground, reinforces our commitment to creating welcoming, inspiring environments for residents and visitors of all ages."
Sylvia Blanco is a self-taught artist, and her work includes small and large-scale murals, street art, live painting, chalk art, and community-based projects. Her work has been featured at the Houston Grand Opera, Telemundo, and our own Smart Financial Centre.
"I've long admired the Civic Arts Division's work across the city and have been eager to collaborate on bringing an inspiring art installation to First Colony Mall. We look forward to building upon our partnership with the City of Sugar Land," said Shenea Bankhead, general manager of First Colony Mall. "This mural isn't just about beautifying a space, it's about reflecting the values we live by: building mutual trust, taking initiative, acting with integrity, and winning together. Through this collaboration, we hope to create meaningful experiences that connect the community and make the mall an even more welcoming and vibrant place for everyone. We are thrilled and can't wait to see it come to life."
The mural will be installed near the indoor playground at JCPenney/Entrance 2.
For more information about the event or other Civic Arts initiatives visit Sugar Land Civic Arts Division.
Instagram: @slcivicarts
About Sugar Land Civic Arts Division
The Sugar Land Civic Arts Division fosters a vibrant artistic community that enhances the lives of residents and visitors alike. Through partnerships with artists, community members, and cultural institutions, the division is committed to making Sugar Land a premier arts destination.