San Antonio Celebrates Tejano and Conjunto Music with Vibrant Public Art

San Antonio, TX – The City of San Antonio‘s Department of Arts & Culture has unveiled a new public art installation that is striking a chord with music lovers across the city. Titled Orgullo Tejano (Tejano Pride), these installations are a tribute to the Tejano and Conjunto music that has long been part of the city’s cultural fabric.

Located off Historic Old Highway 90 and the River Walk Public Art Garden, the main artwork features a 14-foot-tall mosaic and steel accordion player. The accordion is not just an instrument in this piece; it’s an extension of the sculpture’s body, symbolizing the deep connection between the music and the community. A speech scroll flows from the sculpture’s mouth, a nod to the Mesoamerican cultures that have influenced the region.

Artist Luis Lopez, a San Antonio native, designed Orgullo Tejano to honor the legacy of Tejano conjunto music and the artistry of accordion players. “This installation creates a sense of cultural empowerment and enlightenment and promotes the richness, health, and pride of our community,” Lopez said. He hopes the artwork will not only pay homage to the heritage but also “challenges the imagination and inspires future generations.”

In conjunction with the art installation, the Department of Arts & Culture has released the Official City of San Antonio 2024 Fiesta Medals, featuring the iconic accordion player. The medals will be available during a special Fiesta Medal Giveaway through the Donate to the Arts program on Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Centro de Artes Gallery (101 S. Santa Rosa) and the artist will be onsite to meet and greet gallery visitors. These limited-edition medals are free on a first-come, first-served basis (while supplies last, one per person). 

Following this giveaway, the Department of Arts & Culture will offer the Official City of San Antonio medal through the Donate to the Arts program. Any contributors donating $20 or more will be mailed one medal (while supplies last).

The community’s input was integral to the project, with a desire for the artwork to reflect music traditions and celebrations using a “bright and vibrant color palette,” according to Department of Arts & Culture Director Krystal Jones. The result is a piece that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of San Antonio’s Fiesta celebrations.

 “It is a perfect match for our official 2024 Fiesta medal, and we hope the community proudly wears it while enjoying the sights and sounds of our city during this lively time,” added Jones.

For more information about Orgullo Tejano and how to support the arts in San Antonio, visit SanAntonio.gov/Arts and follow @getcreativesa on social media.

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