Meet the Asheville Artist Behind the Texas Roadhouse Murals: David Soileau
In the vibrant city of Asheville, there exists an eminent artist named David Soileau. The murals that adorn the walls of Texas Roadhouse restaurants worldwide trace back to his artistic prowess. As a graduate of UNC Asheville, Soileau’s talent can be witnessed across more than 1,000 individual works of art embellishing the steakhouse chain’s locales.
Artist’s Journey
Soileau’s journey commenced in Henderson County, where he resided since he was six years old. Despite a predisposition for science, influenced by his physicist father, Soileau found a calling in the realm of art. Retaining his creative magnetism, he sought a BFA degree with a concentration in painting from UNC Asheville.
Soileau returned to his birthplace, Lexington, KY, after his graduation, where a chance encounter in a downtown studio led him to the artist who helped secure the Texas Roadhouse contract. Though Soileau returned to Asheville about seven years ago, he continues to design 40-50 panels annually for the Texas Roadhouse locations
Texas Roadhouse Murals: Bringing Localities to Life
Every Texas Roadhouse inhabited by Soileau’s creativity has an original touch of locality. Illustrating local football teams, familiar landmarks, and community highlights, he breathes life into the restaurant’s ambience. For instance, at Asheville’s Texas Roadhouse, patrons can relish their steaks under the gaze of two murals created by Soileau – the bears at Chimney Rock and UNC Asheville cheerleaders.
However, given constraints around licensing, the steakhouse chain has recently mitigated celebrity-based murals in favor of community-centric artwork, infusing artistic freedom and fostering a strong community spirit.
A Medley of Creativity
Despite being significantly engaged in the Roadhouse contract, Soileau’s creativity does not confine to steakhouse murals. From distinctive pet portraits to symbolic arrangements, his flair for eclectic artwork is evident. One of his historically significant works is the mural at the Hendersonville Police Department, dedicated to the memory of a fallen police officer.
With his inextinguishable passion for art still going strong, Soileau expressed his desire to lend more focus to personal projects, alongside his commitment to the Roadhouse, upholding Asheville’s artistic spirit.
About the Texas Roadhouse Murals
Operating across 49 states and 10 countries, Texas Roadhouse offers a unique dining experience punctuated by one-of-a-kind murals. While standard paintings are common across outlets, most murals depict elements that are close to the local populace. This creative format not only amplifies the aesthetic appeal but also strengthens the sense of community within the local neighborhood.
Each of these on-site murals is a result of considerable planning, coordination, and talent, bolstered by artists like David Soileau. His relentless dedication continues to add an artistic flair to dining locations across the globe while embodying local identities to connect with each community uniquely.
