A butterfly takes flight: The Alcalde Hotel mural by Evan Hayes

Gonzales, Texas, has a new landmark, and it’s not just another building — it’s a vibrant, larger-than-life piece of art that tells a story.

The back wall of The Alcalde Hotel now proudly showcases a breathtaking mural created by Evan Hayes, a U.S. Navy veteran and lifelong artist.

Hailing from Bandera, Texas, Hayes has spent most of his life honing his artistic talents. When he’s not creating stunning murals, he co-owns Fire and Glory CrossFit Gym with his brother and runs Divine Nature Tattoo Studio in Bandera.

Despite his deep roots in Bandera, Gonzales holds a special place in his heart. As a child, Hayes and his family would often stop in Gonzales on their way to Lake Jackson, spending the day exploring the town’s rich history and charm. Over the years, that admiration for Gonzales only grew stronger.

So, when Maggie Wills, Evan's friend who is the manager of The Alcalde Hotel, reached out with an idea to bring the hotel’s back wall to life, Hayes didn’t hesitate. The vision? A mural that wouldn’t just be a piece of art, but a lasting tribute that could be captured, shared, and celebrated for years to come.

Now completed, the mural is everything Hayes envisioned — and more.

“As an artist, you always find things you could tweak or change, but for the most part, it’s pretty pleasing to the eye, and I’m happy with how it came out,” Hayes shared. He hopes the mural will inspire visitors and locals alike, becoming a cherished piece of Gonzales’ artistic landscape.

The mural’s beauty extends beyond its physical form — it’s a work of art meant to travel. Hayes encourages everyone to take photos, share them on social media, tag friends, and spread the mural’s reach.

“I’d love to see how far it can go,” he says.

Just as a butterfly symbolizes transformation, change is also coming to The Alcalde Hotel. As the hotel looks forward to celebrating its 100-year anniversary in March 2026, they invite everyone to visit, take a picture with the mural, and share the beauty of this artwork. Don’t forget to tag them @thealcaldehotel!

As a special celebration, anyone who takes a picture with the mural, tags the hotel, and shares it with five friends will be entered into a drawing for a free one-night stay in the beautiful Bird Room Suite. Come be a part of history in the making!