The Art of Homecoming 2020
Tour the Art of Homecoming – a series of twelve murals that start on the Baylor parade route and extend throughout downtown Waco that depict iconic scenes from Homecoming and convey messages of Baylor Spirit.
Waco Hippodrome - 724 Austin Ave
Artist: Julie Milstead
Baylor’s iconic Homecoming parade traditionally kicks off at the corner of 8th and Austin Avenue. As the parade makes its way downtown and onto campus, fan-favorite balloons, such as Bruiser, depicted here, soar above the skyline. Adjacent to the balloon is a series of Andy Warhol-inspired Sailor Bears, a colorful representation of one of the University’s most beloved icons.
Twisted Sister Shoetique – 710 Austin Ave
Artist: Joe Rooster
As the parade moves down Austin Avenue, spectators are greeted by balloons, community groups, and the Baylor University Golden Wave Marching Band. This mural celebrates the spirit of our marching band.
Startup Waco – 605 Austin Ave
Artist: Will Suarez
Established in 1970, the Baylor Line is composed entirely of students and represents the commitment of Baylor fans everywhere to support and cheer on the Bears. This mural celebrates the diversity within the Baylor family and throughout the Baylor Line.
Keep Waco Beautiful – 502B Austin Ave
Artist: Andrea Kilpatrick
Baylor’s mascot, Bruiser, always makes an appearance in the Homecoming parade. This year, take a photo with Bruiser along the parade route! This piece, inspired by the artist’s son’s love of all things Baylor Bears, gives the viewer an interactive opportunity to fling their green and gold.
Tru Jamaica – 937 Taylor St
Artist: Jesus Rivera
Lady and Joy, Baylor’s live bear mascots, greet visitors to campus all year round. During Homecoming, as alumni, friends, and family return to campus, Lady and Joy await in the Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat to greet guests. Housed in the window of Tru Jamaica, this mural is painted on canvas.
Revival Eastside Eatery – 704 Elm Ave
Artist: Mateo Cantu
Get ready for Gameday! This mural depicts the gameday experience at McLane, from the stadium, to the players, including the fans in the stands.
Cultural Arts Fest Waco – 814 Elm Ave
Artist: Cory Lindt
This mural, featuring Jules Bledsoe in shades of green and gold, pays tribute to this native Wacoan and musical pioneer. A gifted performer, Bledsoe became one of the first African Americans on Broadway. Next to the portrait of Bledsoe, an inspiring quote shares a message of hope for all audiences.
Lula Jane’s – 406 Elm Ave
Artist: Paige Partlow
Throughout history, Baylor has faced many opponents for the Homecoming game. The first Homecoming game featured a unique hometown rivalry, Baylor vs. TCU – Waco’s other hometown team prior to their relocation to Fort Worth. This mural puts a modern spin on this historic rivalry, featuring Sailor Bear and TCU’s Horned Frog.
Waco Escape Rooms – 711 Washington Ave
Artist: Christal Peterson
In 1909, Baylor alumni were welcomed back to campus for the University’s first Homecoming celebration with a special postcard. This mural puts a modern spin on that very postcard, featuring Bruiser and Marigold sending Homecoming greetings.
Waco Cha – 1001 Franklin Ave
Artist: Jamie Wong Baesa
This mural depicts the Eternal Flame, steeped in significance as part of a tribute to the Immortal Ten. The torch, in front of the campus skyline, is combined with words from former Baylor President Samuel Palmer Brooks: “To you I hand the torch.”
Coming Home to Waco – 600 Franklin Ave
Artist: Aubrey Krumnow
Depicting Pigskin Revue, this mural portrays Baylor’s Broadway-style showcases, where students perform throughout Homecoming weekend to sold-out crowds and put their talents of song and dance center stage.
Fuzzy’s Tacos – 215 University Parks Dr., Suite 107
Artist: Jacquette Harris
Baylor University’s Homecoming began in 1909, rallying community members from the city of Waco alongside students, faculty and staff to fling their green and gold. This piece showcases and celebrates that rich history – over 100 years of Homecoming!