The recent In the Mix podcast episode talked with Eric Henn of Eric Henn Murals. Eric is a world-renowned muralist with more than 30 years of experience creating realistic large-scale murals around the world. He’s painted structures like buildings and storage tanks from New York to LA and as far away as Australia. Eric brings to life murals measuring up to 100,000 square feet, painting while suspended 200 feet in the air. His work is not only visually stunning, but it also imparts a sense of community and connection to the places where his murals are located.
From Small Beginnings to Monumental Masterpieces
Eric’s artistic journey began in an unconventional way—painting motorcycle tanks in Virginia Beach as a teenager. What started as small-scale designs for the Hell’s Angels quickly evolved into large-scale projects, including surfboards and t-shirt art. His early experience working with fiberglass resin and two-part paint components gave him the technical foundation for tackling larger and more complex projects.
The pivotal moment in Eric’s career came 30 years ago when CITGO Petroleum in Texas requested a 100-foot square logo on a storage tank. Eric took the opportunity to propose a full wraparound mural instead—an ambitious project of 17,000 square feet. The overwhelming success of this project launched his specialization in industrial murals, earning him recognition for his innovative techniques and dedication to quality.
An Artist’s Process: Blending Creativity with Precision
Eric’s approach to mural creation is a fascinating blend of artistic instinct, technical expertise, and meticulous preparation. Depending on the project, clients may provide initial designs, or Eric might develop concepts himself. His ability to blend hundreds of colors on-site allows him to achieve the precise tones and vibrancy needed for realistic scenes. Each mural requires careful consideration of weather conditions, paint formulations, and substrate preparation to ensure the longevity of the artwork.
One standout project in Grand Prairie, Texas, showcases Eric’s craftsmanship and adaptability. Spanning three detailed scenes—including a horse race, a water park, and a serene sunset—the mural faced challenges ranging from tornadoes to high winds. Despite these obstacles, Eric’s innovative use of Tnemec and Lumiflon-based coatings ensured that the mural would withstand time and elements with unmatched durability.
Why Coating Matters: The Secret to Longevity
Eric’s success is built not only on his artistic skill but also on his deep understanding of industrial coatings. Fluoropolymer-based products like Lumiflon and HydroFlon have become his go-to solutions for their superior color retention, gloss, and resistance to UV degradation. As Eric explains, “When I paint something and never want to paint it again, I feel confident using these coatings because I know they’ll last.”
His meticulous preparation and coating choices have ensured that some of his murals remain vibrant for over 30 years, even without additional clear coats. Whether working on steel, concrete, or other surfaces, Eric tailors his techniques and materials to maximize both aesthetic appeal and structural resilience.
Art with Impact: Bringing Communities Together
Eric’s murals are more than just decorative—they serve as landmarks, storytelling tools, and points of local pride. From the iconic Destin water tank to the celebrated Dum Dum tank, his work is recognized far and wide. Cities and corporations are increasingly turning to large-scale murals as a way to enhance their identity and foster community connection.
For Eric, the most rewarding aspect of his work is its visibility. “It beats any billboard on the interstate,” he says. His murals have been featured on television, in promotional materials, and as social media highlights, cementing their place as cultural icons.
Looking Ahead:
As Eric reflects on a career spent atop scaffolding and lifts, he remains excited about future projects. His upcoming work includes expansive murals for ExxonMobil and new designs for pre-stressed concrete tanks in Texas. While he may be scaling back the number of annual projects, Eric is focusing on high-profile, scenic designs that push the boundaries of industrial art.
For cities, corporations, and communities alike, Eric Henn’s murals are a testament to the power of creativity combined with cutting-edge materials. His ability to transform the mundane into the extraordinary ensures that his work will continue to inspire and endure for generations.
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