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Austin, Texas / Public art

Hi, How Are You Mural

Located near the University of Texas campus, this iconic Austin mural features "Jeremiah the Innocent," a friendly, wide-eyed frog painted by artist Daniel Johnston. It remains a beloved symbol of mental wellness and local culture.

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Hi, How Are You Mural
www.hihowareyou.org, og_image_www.hihowareyou.org

What is the Hi, How Are You Mural and where is it located?

The Hi, How Are You Mural is an iconic piece of public art in Austin featuring a friendly, wide-eyed frog named Jeremiah the Innocent. It is located near the University of Texas at Austin campus on the corner of Guadalupe Street and 21st Street.

Who created the mural and when was it painted?

The mural was created by musician and visual artist Daniel Johnston. He was commissioned to paint it on the side of the building in 1993 (though some sources note 1992), choosing to paint a variation of the frog character that originally appeared on his 1983 album cover.

Is the mural open to the public?

Yes, the mural is open to all and can be viewed by anyone passing by the corner where it is located.

What is the legacy of the mural and its artist?

Following Daniel Johnston's death in September 2019, the mural became an impromptu memorial for fans to pay their respects. His legacy also lives on through the Hi, How Are You Project, a nonprofit organization inspired by the mural that educates young adults on mental health and wellness.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Located on the corner of Guadalupe Street and 21st Street near the University of Texas at Austin campus, the "Hi, How Are You" mural is one of the city's most iconic public artworks. Painted on the side of a building that originally housed the Sound Exchange record store, this simple yet captivating image features a friendly, wide-eyed frog named Jeremiah the Innocent. The mural was created by the celebrated local musician and visual artist Daniel Johnston, whose work has come to embody Austin’s unique, creative culture. The mural's history dates back to 1993 when Sound Exchange's store manager, Craig Koon, commissioned Johnston to paint the artwork on the building's exterior. Johnston chose to paint a variation of the frog character that had originally appeared ten years earlier on his 1983 album cover. Over the years, the building changed hands, even housing a restaurant called "Thai, How Are You" from 2013 to 2019 with Johnston's approval. Despite redevelopment of the site after a 2018 sale, the building's owners committed to preserving this historic piece of street art. Following Daniel Johnston's death in September 2019, the mural transformed into an impromptu memorial where grieving fans gathered to pay their respects. Today, his legacy lives on through the "Hi, How Are You Project," a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization inspired by the mural. The project honors Johnston by promoting mental wellness, encouraging open conversations, and helping young people support each other's mental health. Recognized officially for its historical value, the mural was awarded a "cultural landmark" plaque in 2014, ensuring its place in Austin's history.

Visitor tips

  • The mural is completely open to all and can be viewed at any time of day.
  • Look for the official cultural landmark plaque installed on the wall in 2014.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the adjacent University of Texas at Austin campus.

Nearby context

Situated right on the bustling corner of Guadalupe Street and 21st Street, the mural is located directly adjacent to the University of Texas at Austin campus. This lively neighborhood, often referred to as "The Drag," is filled with student activity, shops, and eateries, making the mural a natural focal point for anyone exploring the campus area.

Sources

Evidence and links