The Art of Island Pride: A Community Mural Project
- Melissa Mitchell
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
May 27, 2026
Some of the best ideas come about through collaboration.
I’ve always loved the unexpected beauty that happens when people create something together—the conversations, the exchange of ideas, the laughter, the sense of connection that forms somewhere in the middle of the process. Often, the finished piece becomes more meaningful because of the people behind it.
That’s exactly the spirit behind “Tank You for the Art,” a new community mural project that will transform the fence surrounding the new water tank at Don & Sandy Billish Park into a colorful reflection of Island life.
This isn’t just an invitation to observe something beautiful when it’s finished.
It’s an invitation to be part of creating it.
The idea began when the Padre Isles Property Owners Association approached organizers about adding some color and creativity to the fence surrounding the new tank at Billish Park. Instead of leaving it plain and forgettable, they saw an opportunity to turn it into something welcoming—something that reflects the personality and spirit of the Island itself.
Creativity for Everyone
One of the things I appreciate most about this project is that it isn’t about perfection.
It’s about participation.
Families, individuals, children, friend groups, beginners, experienced painters—Island residents of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to participate by submitting designs inspired by “Island Life.”
Think beach scenes, sea life, gardens, sunsets, palm trees, fishing, dolphins, birds, boats, or anything else that captures what living here means to you.
And before anyone says:
“But I’m not an artist…”
That’s the beauty of this project.
You don’t have to be.
So gather the kids around the table.
Invite a few friends over.
Sketch something on notebook paper.
Paint together on the patio one evening.
Turn it into a family project.
This is one of those rare opportunities where the goal isn’t to create a perfect masterpiece.
It’s creating something together.
#ItTakesAnIsland is the mantra behind Island Pride, the group helping champion the project.
To them, Island Pride means taking pride in the place we all share—from homes and businesses to parks, palm trees, and public spaces. It’s about neighbors working together to leave things better than they found them.
Their small core team, along with volunteers throughout the community, help lead projects year-round—from holiday lighting events to patriotic tributes honoring veterans and first responders.
And now, they’re turning a fence into a canvas.
Island Spirit
What makes this project even more special is that it has already been fully funded through community support.
That tells you everything you need to know about this Island.
People here show up.
Not just for the big things—but for the meaningful things.
Painting days are planned for August, and community members will be invited to help paint the mural, even if they didn’t submit a design themselves.
Because this project isn’t just about selecting a winning piece of artwork.
It’s about participation.
Connection.
Community Pride.
And creating something together that people will enjoy for years to come.
But I have a feeling the real reward will be seeing something you helped inspire become part of the Island itself.
And if you’ve never entered an art contest before, Marguerita has simple advice:
“Just do it—you never know what you can achieve until you try.”
I think that applies to more than art.
It actually reminds me of one of my youngest son’s favorite sayings when he was little. Anytime he tried convincing his siblings to taste something new or do something outside their comfort zone, he’d proudly announce:
“Don’t be afraid to try new things!”
That’s pretty good advice for all of us.
Sometimes all it takes is one little idea, one rough sketch, or one evening spent creating together to spark something special.
And that’s exactly what’s happening at Billish Park—one painted panel at a time.
How to Participate
Island residents of all ages and skill levels are invited to submit a design inspired by “Island Life” and what makes this community special to them.
Organizers kindly ask that submissions avoid logos, advertising, and political references.
Email entries to: islandpridepadreisland@gmail.com
Subject line: “Tank You for the Art” Contest
Along with your sketched design attachment, be sure to include the artist’s name (or group name), phone number, email address, and concept name.
And don’t let the idea of painting a large mural intimidate you.
Even rough sketches and simple concepts are encouraged.
Professional artists Debbie Kastner of It’s Art Time and Brittany Milem of The Brittany Taaylor Boutique will help guide the process and bring the winning design to life during community painting days in August.
Contest entries are due June 30th, and the winning design will receive a $100 gift card donated by fellow islander Rick McGinley, Executive Director of the Padre Isles Property Owners Association.
For contest rules, submission details, and updates, follow Island Pride on Facebook: Island Pride–Padre Island
The Art of Island Life will return next week with more stories and coastal reflections.
Have a story to share or a cause close to your heart? I’d love to hear from you at contact@melissamitchellart.com
14646 Compass Street, Suite 10
The Island—Corpus Christi, Texas 78418
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Tuesday-Thursday: 11a-4p
Friday & Saturday: 12p-4p
Closed Sunday & Monday
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