The Art of Remembering: How Houston’s Murals Turn a Bar into a Cultural Shrine
There’s something profoundly moving about walking into a bar and being greeted by the larger-than-life visage of a cultural icon. In Houston’s Second Ward, By The Wayside isn’t just a cocktail bar—it’s a living tribute to the city’s soul. What makes this particularly fascinating is how the bar’s owners, Braden and Samantha Navarre, have transformed their space into a cultural shrine, using murals of DJ Screw to anchor their celebration of 713 Day. It’s not just about drinks or music; it’s about identity, memory, and the power of art to connect us to our roots.
Why DJ Screw? Why Now?
DJ Screw’s legacy is undeniable, but what’s striking is how his image has become a visual shorthand for Houston’s hip-hop heritage. Personally, I think the choice to feature him in murals isn’t just a nod to the past—it’s a statement about the present. Screw’s music was revolutionary, blending slowed-down beats with raw lyrics that captured the essence of the city. By immortalizing him on their walls, the Navarres are doing more than honoring a legend; they’re asserting that Houston’s cultural DNA is alive and evolving.
One thing that immediately stands out is the timing. 713 Day, an unofficial holiday celebrating Houston’s original area code, has become a rallying cry for local pride. But what many people don’t realize is that it’s also a moment to reflect on how far the city has come. DJ Screw’s association with the day isn’t just symbolic—it’s a reminder of how deeply intertwined hip-hop is with Houston’s identity. If you take a step back and think about it, the murals aren’t just art; they’re a manifesto.
The Murals as More Than Decoration
The four murals at By The Wayside are more than just eye candy. Each one, created by local artists like Donkeeboy and Gabriel Escobedo, tells a story. A detail that I find especially interesting is the mural featuring DJ Screw in a Houston Texans jersey, with a screw piercing the team logo. It’s a visual pun, sure, but it’s also a clever way to bridge the city’s love for sports and its musical heritage. What this really suggests is that Houston’s culture isn’t compartmentalized—it’s a tapestry where football, music, and art all weave together.
From my perspective, the collaboration with Free Walls, a local art collective, is a masterstroke. By involving artists who are deeply rooted in the community, the Navarres aren’t just commissioning art; they’re fostering a dialogue. These murals aren’t static—they’re living, breathing testaments to the city’s creativity. And that’s what makes them so powerful.
The Bar as a Cultural Hub
By The Wayside isn’t just a place to grab a drink; it’s a cultural hub. The 713 Day celebration, complete with a special cocktail menu, vinyl DJ, and customized slab cars, is a microcosm of Houston’s diversity. What makes this particularly fascinating is how the Navarres have managed to capture the essence of the city in a single event. It’s not just about nostalgia; it’s about creating a space where people can connect, celebrate, and reflect.
In my opinion, the bar’s role as a music venue is key. Music has always been the heartbeat of Houston, and by putting it at the forefront, the Navarres are tapping into something deeper. They’re not just throwing a party; they’re curating an experience that resonates with anyone who’s ever felt a connection to the city.
The Broader Implications: Art, Identity, and Community
This raises a deeper question: What does it mean for a city to celebrate itself? Houston’s embrace of 713 Day and DJ Screw’s legacy isn’t just about pride—it’s about preservation. In a world where gentrification and globalization threaten to erase local cultures, initiatives like By The Wayside’s murals are acts of resistance. They’re a way of saying, ‘This is who we are, and we’re not going anywhere.’
What many people don’t realize is that art like this has a ripple effect. It inspires future generations, sparks conversations, and reinforces a sense of belonging. If you take a step back and think about it, these murals are more than just paintings—they’re a call to action. They challenge us to think about how we honor our past while building our future.
Final Thoughts: A Toast to Houston
As I reflect on By The Wayside and its DJ Screw murals, I’m struck by how much they embody the spirit of Houston. It’s a city that doesn’t just celebrate its icons—it lives them. The Navarres’ decision to center their bar around this cultural narrative is a bold move, but it’s also a smart one. They’ve created a space that’s not just for Houstonians, but for anyone who appreciates the power of art to tell a story.
Personally, I think this is what community looks like in the 21st century. It’s not just about shared geography; it’s about shared values, shared memories, and a shared commitment to keeping those things alive. So here’s to Houston, to DJ Screw, and to the Navarres for reminding us that sometimes, the best way to look forward is to look back. Cheers to that.
