The Hockley County Credit Union (HCCU) joins with other buildings and businesses that are a part of the heritage of Hockley County and the City of Mosaics with its own special mosaic that was completed in September.
The mosaic, located on the exterior wall near the entrance of the HCCU is a standout feature of the new building that was completed this Summer, adding 5,400 square feet to the existing branch to allow for future growth both in business and their staff.
The mosaic was designed by local artisan Pauline Mills who prepared the tile sheets for the letters, unique symbols and background in her studio. When it was time to mount the tiles, it was decided the community could join in to complete the mosaic.
Angie Vest, head of marketing and operations at HCCU, said when people came to HCCU for deposits or business matters, they were invited to mount a tile. Later, in September, a Sunday afternoon was set aside to finish the mosaic with about 100 people showing up and making it truly a community invested project.
Vest said, “Years down the road, a grandfather can take his grandchildren to see the mosaic and say they helped build it.”
Mills, who has other mosaic works of art in Levelland, was born and raised in Ireland before coming to the United States and settling in the Lone Star State. Rather than signing her unique mosaics, she adds her signature “shamrock” tile to her creations and artwork, which has led people in a search to find. Vest said HCCU may have a fun “find the shamrock” campaign for people to participate in. Aesthetically, HCCU wanted to modernize the branch while maintaining the comfortable feel their members have known throughout its 70 years in business. The new mosaic fits the bill, fitting with the modern look, both inside and out, and catches the eye with its Texas flag and artistic points.
The staff of the institution was thrilled to have a chance to be home to a fantastic art piece for their community. The Staywood Design architectural team worked closely with a local mosaic artist Mills to ensure the specs for the designated space would structurally support the large piece but also protect it from exterior elements.
The mosaic now stands as another symbol of West Texas dedication and heart, created by Mills, HCCU employees and community members in the City of Mosaics.