A Convergence of Eras, Forged through
Time & United in Pride
Midtown’s Pride Sign Wrap Honors
Queer Icons Across Generations
This Pride Month, Midtown Houston unveils a powerful new symbol of queer visibility: a bold, colorful sign wrap titled “A Convergence of Eras, Forged through Time & United in Pride,” created by Houston artist Angel Albarran. The installation transforms the iconic Midtown sign at Bagby Park into a striking work of public art—each letter serving as both time capsule and tribute, capturing the people, places, and stories that have defined the city’s LGBTQ legacy.
This installation serves as a time capsule, a time machine, and a love letter to Houston’s LGBTQ+ community. Artist Angel Albarran shares, “The idea for ‘A Convergence of Eras’ sparked when I saw a photo of Ray Hill holding a teacup, and my immediate thought was, ‘Of coooourse!! Gay people love brunch!’ That whimsical connection launched a larger exploration of what it would be like to meet our heroes across time.”
My goal is always to create art that connects people. This piece is about time and identity, how the past informs the present, how the queer community keeps forging its own future, and how we’re all part of that narrative.
Each letter carries its own narrative. The “M,” in fiery red, honors Bryan Hlavinka, a dedicated archivist preserving Houston’s queer memory. “I,” bathed in orange, commemorates the powerful activism of Ray Hill. “D,” shining bright yellow, celebrates JD Doyle, whose work has safeguarded decades of queer musical heritage. “T,” wrapped in green, pays homage to Judge Phyllis Frye, a national pioneer for transgender rights. The teal “O” blends the spirit of Montrose with the legacy of Albatross, an early queer publication. “W,” in calming blue, recalls the energy of Larry Bagneris and the iconic Mining Co. nightclub. And “N,” rich in purple, spotlights former mayor Annise Parker’s historic leadership.
This is a project of the Midtown Cultural Arts and Entertainment District in association with the Midtown Management District. Since 2022, the Midtown Cultural Arts and Entertainment District has invited artists and designers to create rotating seasonal installations for the Midtown sign. Our community is a designated State of Texas Cultural Arts and Entertainment District (2012). We are known for our many attractions, including picturesque park spaces, long-standing cultural arts organizations, impactful public art, and national award-winning public art. Many thanks to the Houston Endowment for funding this project.
