Carrollton grain tower now a work of art

The 110-foot-tall grain silo in downtown Carrollton is now a work of art.

Driving the news: Phoenix-based artist Clyde Thompson completed a wildflower- and railroad-themed mural on the historic structure last week.

• The city commissioned the work as part of its downtown masterplan.

Flashback: The Blanton Grain Company built the tower in 1950 next to the rail line, which is now a DART stop.

• The tower was at one point a rock climbing facility. It was given a historical designation in 2010.

How it happened: The design plans weren't shared publicly before the project began.

• After the silo was prepped, the muralist began the outlines of giant bluebonnets and other wildflowers. The mural also features a steam train and a modern commuter train.
• The artwork was filled in with vibrant colors, revealing the full image over weeks of work.

What's next: The east side of the grain tower, which faces the train tracks, remains a blank canvas. The city plans for a mural to be painted there later.

Go deeper: Thompson posted drone footage of the progress on Instagram.