CapMetro Unveils Community-Inspired Mosaic Mural at McKalla Red Line Station

On April 6, 2024, the agency held a celebration at McKalla Station to publicly unveil the 80-foot-long mural. The event included music, frozen treats, and remarks from CapMetro leadership, members of the CapMetro Board, members of the community and the artist. 

“This beautiful mosaic serves as a testament to the transformative and uniting power of art,” said Melissa Ortiz, Director of Community Engagement & Involvement at CapMetro. “This mural helps create a space where people can come together, share experiences, and build meaningful connections.  I want to give my heartfelt gratitude to the J, his team and all the volunteers who helped realize an artistic vision for all to enjoy.” 

The mural is made up of over 100,000 individual glass pieces and is heavily inspired by the community. Over 78 Austin-area residents provided survey responses that helped influence its design. The mural depicts an inclusive community of fans, supporter groups, public figures, and everyday transit workers who make up our unique and vibrant community.  

“It was incredibly rewarding to bring together so many people of all ages and abilities along for the process,” said muralist J Muzacz. “Seeing so many people forge friendships and make memories that are now permanently cemented into the mosaic is inspiring. The Heartbeat of Austin is truly a culmination of our community’s collective power to join together and create something beautiful and timeless, perfect in its imperfection.”  

During the summer of 2023, the artist invited supporter groups and the greater Austin community to The Mosaic Workshop at Something Cool Studios to help build the mural's 12”x 12” sections.  

The mural is located on McKalla Station’s Eastern platform, near Delta Drive. The newest rail station opened to the public on February 24, 2024. It sits adjacent to Q2 Stadium and serves as a communal hub, providing access and connections to the growing North Burnet area.