Transforming a Starbucks with Art, Birds, and Storytelling

When the Starbucks Art Program reached out to me about creating artwork for their newest location in downtown McKinney, I felt an immediate connection. As a muralist who celebrates beauty, nature, and community through large-scale public art, this felt like the perfect collaboration.

This project became a series of three unique murals, each one inspired by Texas birds, storytelling, and the idea that art can elevate everyday spaces.

🎨 The Drive-Thru Mural: A Joyful Welcome

The first mural greets customers as they wait in the drive-thru. I chose to feature a Cardinal, Cedar Waxwing, and Blue Jay, three vibrant birds commonly found here in North Texas. Each one has its own energy and symbolism, and together, they bring color, movement, and a sense of curiosity to the side of the building. I wanted this mural to feel like a cheerful hello, even on busy mornings when people are just grabbing coffee and rushing off to start their day.

🌿 The Highway-Facing Wall: Beauty in Motion

On the side of the building that faces the highway, I painted a Yellow-rumped Warbler, perched against a soft wash of color and texture. This mural was designed to be seen from a distance, by drivers, walkers, and cyclists. It’s a reminder to notice beauty even when we’re in motion.

🖼️ The Interior Painting: A Moment of Reflection

The final piece lives inside the store: a 6’x6’ canvas featuring a woman looking upward into a coffee plant, surrounded by three more birds: Painted Bunting, American Goldfinch, and American Robin. These species are known for their color, song, and presence in our backyards, and I paired them with a quote from Henry Van Dyke that I absolutely love:“Use what talents you possess; the woods would be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best.”

This quote speaks to the heart of my work. It’s a reminder that you don’t have to be the best to be worthy of being seen and heard. Every voice (and every bird) matters.

A Grateful Collaboration

I’m so thankful to the Starbucks Art Program for trusting me to bring this vision to life. They gave me creative freedom, believed in my work, and allowed me to reflect my community through these murals.

If you find yourself in McKinney, stop by for a coffee, a breath of fresh air, and a little joy painted on the walls.

📍 Location:

Downtown McKinney Starbucks, 409 S McDonald St, McKinney, Texas 75069

Thank you for following along and supporting public art. Let’s keep turning blank walls into places of wonder.