Waco, Tx–Past, Present & Future

by Mike Tabor

Texas artist Mike Tabor uses bold lines and colors to tell stories of Waco through time. The historic Waco Suspension Bridge serves as an anchor within the composition, and is shown in two forms: with the brick facing and crenelated parapet present when the bridge opened in 1870, and the stucco facing completed in 1914 that we know today. The curved suspension cables highlight a dramatized Texas sky while simultaneously mimicking the curved brass inlays of the airport terminal floor below your feet. Indigenous flora and fauna as well as symbols of economic prosperity are represented as well. Look closely, as the artist also incorporated text elements that reference components depicted in the artwork.

Meet Mike Tabor

Mike Tabor has over 40 years of professional experience as an artist and arts educator. He works primarily in sculpture and painting, and works in a variety of settings. His bronze sculptures, works on canvas, and murals can be seen in both temporary and permanent installations across the United States, and he has also created a large portfolio of works in response to commissions from individuals, groups, corporations and institutions. You can see examples of Tabor’s work along the Tarrant Regional Water District’s Trinity Trails in Fort Worth, in Arlington’s Globe Life Park, and on the campus of his alma mater, Tarleton State University.