3CDC Engages 1001 Colors to Bring Convention District Mural to Life

Design Renderings Unveiled Ahead of Installation

CINCINNATI (July 9, 2026) – Following a nationwide request for qualifications (RFQ) issued in October of last year, 1001 Colors — the primary generator of public art in Greater Cincinnati, formerly known as ArtWorks — selected an artist to complete a large-scale mural installation in Cincinnati’s Convention District. Contracted by Cincinnati Center City Development Corp. (3CDC) to lead this project, a selection committee from 1001 Colors carefully reviewed 180 submissions, advancing the top 12 to 3CDC. Together, they narrowed the pool to three finalists and invited each to develop a stipend-supported design proposal. 3CDC ultimately selected Texas-based artist DAAS to design and install the roughly 20,000-square-foot mural on the exterior façade of the Convention Center Garage, which is currently undergoing a series of upgrades.

Located at 210 W 4th Street, the Convention Center Garage sits within view of the newly renovated First Financial Center, presenting a unique opportunity to create a piece that complements existing artwork at both the First Financial Center and Elm Street Plaza. In late 2024, 1001 Colors led local project stakeholders in developing the unifying theme of convergence to guide artwork at the First Financial Center. The same theme also shaped the Convention Center Garage RFQ, with artists asked to interpret it in their proposals. Submissions were evaluated on how well they complemented existing pieces while introducing something new to the space.

Austin-based contemporary artist and acclaimed muralist DAAS — known for his experience with large-scale works — was selected for the project. His design draws inspiration from river currents, bridge structures, and the paths people take through the city. Reflecting the theme Convergence, the mural illustrates flowing bands that meet, overlap, and intersect at key points, while interlocking shapes emphasize connection. These overlaps highlight where neighborhoods come together, showing how people share space while remaining part of a larger whole.

“Having the opportunity to contract DAAS for this massive opportunity is a huge win for Cincinnati,” said Liz Miller, Senior Director of Programs for 1001 Colors. “Not only does DAAS bring with him a wealth of first-hand experience producing monumental public murals, but he also brings his signature abstract aesthetic – an artistic style that is less represented among our city’s public art portfolio. The way DAAS manipulates color, shape, and movement in his compositions will help transform a parking garage into a notable public landmark that will sit cohesively among the many other artful developments and installations within the Convention Center corridor and the Convention Center itself.”

DAAS will travel to Cincinnati for just over a month to complete the mural, working alongside two local support artists, Chase Melendez and Matt Grote, who were identified by 1001 Colors. Both artists were chosen for their strong artistic skill and proven ability to execute the style and scale required for the project. It was especially important that 1001 Colors selected artists with experience on large-scale murals involving specialized equipment. Once the wall has been power washed and primed, the team will paint on-site Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., until the mural is finished. Over the course of the project, they expect to use approximately 100 gallons of paint.

“It’s an honor to be part of Cincinnati’s growing public art collection and create something people will see and experience every day,” said DAAS. “Working from the theme of Convergence, I drew inspiration from the Ohio River, the city’s bridges, and the movement of people throughout Cincinnati. Those influences became a series of flowing geometric forms that move across the entire garage, turning it into something more than just infrastructure. My hope is that it gives the building its own identity and encourages people to see a familiar place in a new way.”

Wall prep is set to begin the first week of August, with DAAS and his team following close behind. Completion of the mural is expected by the middle of September, though this timeline could be influenced by inclement weather.

In addition to the mural installation and various structural repairs, the renovation of the 780-space garage involves a series of other upgrades including the addition of a new elevator and stair tower, EV chargers, and LED lighting throughout. Upon completion, the garage will provide parking for the upcoming Cincinnati Downtown Marriott Hotel, First Financial Center, and other local attractions.

To learn more about DAAS, please visit https://www.artist-daas.com/.

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