Progress is a double-edged sword. On one hand, when a city grows, it opens more opportunities, jobs, and housing. On the other hand, progress can come at the expense of the people who are already in the area. For instance, a mural featuring Willie Nelson and Janis Joplin in Austin, Texas is in danger due to the pending demolition of the building on which it is painted.
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According to KVUE, a local news source, the building located at 407 E Seventh Street which used to house Mug Shots bar may be demolished by the current property owner, Jaffa Parks LLC. The building is nearly 100 years old and the mural of Nelson and Joplin has adorned the outer wall for less than a decade.
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Wiley Ross painted the mural in February 2016. Originally, it only featured Nelson. In 2017, Ross returned to the mural to add Joplin’s likeness. They are among the musicians who helped to shape Austin’s musical identity and make it a hub for musicians and artists in the Lone Star State. More than that, Austin was something of a home base for the Outlaw Country movement in the ‘70s.
Why the Mural Featuring Willie Nelson and Janis Joplin Is in Danger
The news report states that Jaffa Parks LLC is seeking to demolish the building because it stands on what it calls a “high-rise development site,” according to its website. “Located in the heart of downtown Austin, this high-rise development site was recently repaved, striped, and currently serves the community with safe, convenient parking while development plans are underway,” the website states. “The site is approximately 1/3 acre, and can accommodate a multifamily, hotel, or office tower without height restriction.”
However, nothing is set in stone at the time of writing. Austin’s Historic Landmark Commission will review Jaffa Parks LLC’s demolition permit at its meeting tomorrow (November 6). The building is among four demolition permits the commission will review during their meeting. So, it is possible that they will save the mural of Willie Nelson and Janis Joplin. At the very least, they could force the property owner to postpone demolition.
Featured Image by Jordan Vonderhaar/Getty Images
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