UVALDE, Texas — Towering figures line Texas highways — not statues of bronze or steel, but vibrant, painted plywood cutouts that bring larger-than-life personalities to the roadside. These eye-catching installations are the work of John Cerney, a California-based artist whose whimsical “giant cut-out art” has become a visual staple of the American road trip.
A native of Salinas, Cerney describes himself as a muralist — though his unconventional medium rarely touches a wall. Instead, his free-standing, billboard-sized figures — some more than 18 feet tall — are designed to surprise and entertain travelers from the comfort of their cars. With dozens of works installed nationwide, Cerney’s outdoor murals transform empty landscapes into open-air galleries.
Texas-Sized Tributes
Texas holds a prominent place in Cerney’s portfolio, boasting five installations that celebrate the state’s icons and quirks:
- “Giant Martha” in Marfa, a stylized tribute to the town’s artistic soul and desert mystique.
“Giant Martha” in Marfa TX - “The Bargen King” in San Antonio, a humorous nod to fast-food royalty and pop culture.
“The Bargen King” in San Antonio, Photo from John Cerney official - Matthew McConaughey, depicted in three separate installations across Uvalde County.
Matthew McConaughey. Photo from John Cerney official Instagram account.
- Los Palominos, a Grammy-winning Tejano band, honored outside the Uvalde Chamber of Commerce (300 E. Main St.).
Los Palominos, a Grammy-winning Tejano band, Photo from John - Dale Evans, the beloved singer, actress, and wife of Roy Rogers, commemorated at the Uvalde County Fairplex (215 Veterans Lane).
Dale Evans. Photo from John Cerney official Instagram account.
Each piece adds a bold splash of character to its surroundings, drawing attention not just to the art, but to the culture and community it celebrates.
Uvalde’s Cultural Footprint
Uvalde, which hosts the bulk of Cerney’s Texas work, is more than a backdrop — it’s a cradle of creative talent. This small South Texas city has produced a remarkable roster of entertainers and cultural figures:
- Matthew McConaughey, Academy Award-winning actor and philanthropist.
- Dale Evans, pioneering singer-songwriter and Hollywood icon.
- Johnny Rodriguez, the first major Latino star in country music.
- Eva Longoria, award-winning actress and advocate with family roots in the region.
The town also celebrates its creative spirit through public art. Visitors will find:
- A statue of Dale Evans at the Fairplex.
- A mural of Johnny Rodriguez in the downtown area.
- Main Street murals showcasing Uvalde’s agricultural roots, heritage, and vibrant community.
A City of History and Art
Founded in 1855, Uvalde has long served as a cultural and educational hub in Southwest Texas. It’s home to Southwest Texas Junior College, the historic Janey Slaughter Briscoe Grand Opera House, and several local museums and historic sites. The scenic Frio and Nueces Rivers nearby also draw nature lovers and visitors year-round.
As Uvalde’s public art scene expands, John Cerney’s towering portraits serve as both landmarks and love letters — celebrating the stories, stars, and spirit of Texas.
Whether it’s the smile of a Western legend or the cool gaze of McConaughey, Cerney’s murals ensure that in Texas, even the roadside art is larger than life.
