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design elements - San Jacinto Texas Historic District

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Community Art & Local Craftsmanship<br />

Defi nition<br />

The public realm is greatly enhanced when<br />

art and craftsmanship are integrated into the<br />

<strong>design</strong> of the street environment. The <strong>San</strong><br />

<strong>Jacinto</strong> <strong>Texas</strong> <strong>Historic</strong> <strong>District</strong> is fortunate<br />

to have a rich cultural and environmental<br />

legacy that local artisans and craftsmen<br />

can draw upon. Art installations such as<br />

murals, frescoes, mosaics, and sculpture<br />

can be added to existing outdoor spaces in<br />

the district. These types of installations are<br />

generally created for the sake of the art itself.<br />

When new places are constructed, there is<br />

also an opportunity to integrate functional<br />

<strong>design</strong> <strong>elements</strong> using local craftsmen. These<br />

can include pavement treatments, wrought<br />

iron creations, fountain <strong>elements</strong>, landforms,<br />

lighting displays, stonework, and detailed<br />

carpentry.<br />

Applicability<br />

From a cultural perspective, the most<br />

signifi cant event in the <strong>District</strong>’s history<br />

is the batt le of <strong>San</strong> <strong>Jacinto</strong> that created the<br />

Republic of <strong>Texas</strong> and eventually led to the<br />

150 │ APPENDICES<br />

annexation of <strong>Texas</strong> by the United States. The<br />

district also has a strong industrial legacy as<br />

a major shipping port and petrochemical<br />

center. The region’s natural history is also<br />

signifi cant with its unique mix of coastal<br />

tallgrass prairie, mixed hardwood forest, and<br />

estuarine bayous. Art installations and work<br />

by local craftsmen should draw upon these<br />

primary themes in order to distinguish the<br />

unique qualities of the <strong>District</strong>.<br />

Benefi ts<br />

■<br />

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■<br />

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Art and craftsmanship can enhance<br />

tourism opportunities.<br />

Art and craftsmanship can stimulate<br />

public and private investment.<br />

Art and craftsmanship can improve the<br />

visual appeal of the <strong>District</strong>.<br />

Art and craftsmanship can provide an<br />

educational experience for visitors.<br />

Art and craftsmanship can add to the<br />

quality of life for local residents and<br />

workers.<br />

Artistic murals depicting neighborhood history.<br />

Walkways using a naturalistic appearance.<br />

Adding personal touches to the landscape.<br />

IMAGE: SOURCE UNKNOWN IMAGE: SOURCE UNKNOWN IMAGE: SOURCE UNKNOWN

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