Yonkers Arts Unveils Vibran New Mural!
On Friday, February 16th, 2024 Yonkers Arts unveiled a vibrant new mural installation in collaboration with the City of Yonkers. The installation is one of many artistic endeavours that aims to transform the community via the arts, while also creating a welcoming and engaging art experience for commuters and visitors alike. Space for the installation was gracefully provided by the MTA and Metro-North Railroad.
The mural, titled “We The People” by renowned artist CJ Priester, showcases Yonkers, now the third most populous city in the state, as a proud community featuring a diverse melting pot in the current metropolitan area. The City of Yonkers, considered to be a ‘transient city’, serves as a gateway to NYC and the greater Hudson Valley. The mural is part of Yonkers Arts’ ongoing vision of beautifying the City of Yonkers via the arts and culture. The section of the wall being activated was provided as a result of the partnership between the Metropolitan Transportation Authority Government and Community Relations, Yonkers Arts, and the City of Yonkers,
Ray Wilcox, Executive Director of Yonkers Arts states, “This evocative piece reflects the unique spirit and diverse cultural tapestry of Yonkers, offering a visual celebration of the city's rich history, artistic vibrancy, and dynamic community. This partnership exemplifies our commitment to enhancing public spaces and fostering cultural engagement within the communities we serve. This vibrant artwork will undoubtedly transform the station into a more welcoming and inspiring gateway for Yonkers."
“We The People,” is an unique mural installation that will not follow traditional outdoor-art activations. Yonkers Arts and their installation team of engineers built durable and sustainable (metal) walls that are adhered directly to the MTA retaining wall across the street from the Yonkers Riverfront Library. The installation is approximately 8ft. (at its highest peak) by 50ft. wide. The art will also feature an augmented reality component that will bring the creative to life upon scanning it with visitors’ smartphones created by local artist Valen Daughtery.
“Public art has been a key contributor to the transformation of the Yonkers waterfront,” said Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano. “This and our other public murals tell the diverse and colorful stories of our city – we are excited to share them with the world. Thank you to Yonkers Arts and the MTA for this inspiring collaboration that brings so much life to our waterfront.”
"Public art plays a vital role in building a vibrant and inclusive community. This mural will spark joy and inspire conversation, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who experiences it," shared Ray Wilcox of Yonkers Arts.
