San Antonio’s creative spirit is everywhere you look — in our murals, music, food, and the people who make this city feel alive. Our Made in San Antonio series highlights the artists, musicians, chefs, and makers who give the Alamo City its heartbeat.

This month, we’re spotlighting mural artist Mike “Comp” Arguello, whose work is personal, community-focused, and inspired by generations of San Antonio roots. You’ve probably seen his murals across the city, from Market Square to St. Mary’s — each one telling a story about the place he proudly calls home.

Who’s Mike Comp?

Mike’s San Antonio roots run deep. His family traces back to the Canary Islanders, some of the city’s earliest settlers. He grew up on the Southside, spending time at the San Antonio Missions, San Pedro Creek, the aqueducts, and even taking trips to the Tower of the Americas with his grandma. Those places naturally show up in his work today.

He is also drawn to painting faces and emotion. Mike is open about his journey with bipolar depression, and he says that connection to emotion often comes through in his murals. It is not something he adds on purpose, but it becomes part of the piece because it reflects who he is.

You will also spot his daughter, Logan, throughout his work. She is one of his biggest inspirations, and he loves sneaking her into murals, from the pillar at St. Mary’s and Quincy to the piñata scene at Market Square.
 

Where Can You See His Art?

Mike’s murals appear throughout San Antonio, often in unexpected places. A few of his notable pieces include:

Mural of girl in different stages of age by Mike "Comp" Arguello.
Photo by @mikecomp

The Quincy & St. Mary’s Mural (Near Black Swan Yoga)

A heartfelt pillar mural series featuring Mike’s daughter at different ages.

Market Square / The Pass (Under I-35)

Another piece featuring Logan — this time mid-swing as she hits a piñata. Located near the newly updated basketball courts.

Split screen of two murals - one of monarch butterflies and the other of a monkey in a spacesuit with a butterfly; both by artist Mike Arguello.
Photo by @mikecomp

 

Butterfly Mural + Space Monkey

You can find these murals at La Picosa, located at Brooks City Base.

London Mural

Mike even has a piece of San Antonio across the pond — you can find one of his murals inside The Common Press café in London!

Mural of woman in Foloriko dress smiling front of Pearl.

New Community Mural at Pearl

Mike recently partnered with Visit San Antonio and Pearl to create a new community mural that brings locals and visitors together through art.

Inspired by past community mural work, this new mural celebrates both San Antonio’s iconic landmarks and the historic Pearl district. The mural was intentionally crafted with both detail and accessibility: smaller, intricate sections appeal to adults and seasoned artists, while larger open spaces encourage kids, families, and beginners to participate.

This community-first approach reflects Mike’s belief that art belongs to everyone and that creativity should be a shared experience. The mural is not just a finished piece; it’s a reflection of the people who helped paint it.

 

Mike’s Favorite Spots in San Antonio, Texas

When asked about his favorite places in the city, Mike admits he’s “heavily biased toward the South Side,” the area where he grew up. These are just a few of the places he recommends for anyone wanting to experience the heart of San Antonio’s culture:
 

The San Antonio Missions

A must-see for locals and visitors. Beyond their global historical significance, they are deeply tied to Mike’s personal upbringing; his grandmother often brought him and his brothers there as kids.

San Pedro Creek Culture Park

A stunning blend of art, history, and water features, especially inspiring for art lovers.

Museum Favorites

San Antonio River Walk with Selena Bridge

Local Spots He Loves

Follow Mike Comp

To explore more of Mike’s murals — and find exact mural locations — follow him on Instagram at @mikecomp. You’ll find his latest projects, works-in-progress, and updates across San Antonio.