Born to Fly by Rafael Blanco

Categories Public Art • Landmarks • Attractions

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601 N Chaparral St
Corpus Christi, TX 78401

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Native of Spain, Rafael Blanco is a contemporary artist fascinated with identity, human expression, and diversity & inclusion as a main focus in his work. Rafael has been trained as a classical studio painter since 2004, and began his transition to public art, especially to large scale murals in 2014.  

He has painted installations from coast-to-coast include: California, Maryland, and now, Corpus Christi. Rafael has participated in numerous street art festivals and mural competitions, as well as produced commissioned work for dozens of cities across the U.S. Blanco continues producing studio work and has shown nationally and internationally in a variety of museums and galleries.  

The design of his Mural Fest 2022 mural was created to honor and celebrate men and women who have served for and supported the Corpus Christi Naval Air Station.  The station is home to Chief of Naval Air Training, Training Air Wing FOUR, Corpus Christi Army Depot, and other tenants. NAS Corpus Christi has supported pilot training and operations since 1941.  Rafael hopes this piece instills pride, respect, and a commemoration to all who serve for our country: past, present, and future. 

Rafael felt an overwhelming sense of pride producing this piece, as his grandfather served in the Spanish Civil War. From the time he has arrived in Corpus Christi mural, has been visited by dozens of local military.