Maria J. Blige It is DMX were honored with a new mural in New York at Yonker’s Palisade Towers.
According to Everything Hip Hopartists and jazz legend Ella Fitzgerald were immortalized to honor their contributions to the arts.
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Inspo behind Mary J. Blige’s mural
The ‘Together’ mural features a rose growing in concrete. A Tupac Shakur poem inspired the metaphor mural.
The artwork aims to uplift the community and inspire children to see greatness. Furthermore, the art recognizes that life can be challenging, but good can come. It also serves as an example of New York’s mission to use art to inspire and educate citizens.
Ray Wilcox, the Executive Director of Yonker’s Art INC., and Mayor Mike Spano reportedly attended the dedication. Wilox thanked everyone who helped the project come to life. Robin Alcantara, the artist, was also recognized.
With the completion of ‘Together,’ the Yonkers Housing Authority continues to advance its public art initiative. The mural is related to a massive $2 million public art project to incorporate art into public spaces.
“There are great people who come out of our public housing…” said City Council President Lakisha Collins-Bellamy, in reference to DMX and MJB.
Mayor Spano speaks
Meanwhile, the mayor shared that the mural creates a sense of pride and possibility within the community.
He said, “We need to have arts if we really want to give our children not only more education but also give them that spark…”
Additionally, Mayor Spano believes this will give young people “that extra dose of creativity that comes with music and art.”
“It’s a beautiful day,” Spano said.
Mary J. Blige did not attend the grand opening, but Mayor Spano hoped she would visit soon. Furthermore, she honored Alcântara with a proclamation declaring a day in her honor. The mayor recognized him for his “wonderful job.”
The city firmly believes that a little paint can have a significant impact.
Check out the press conference and mural below:
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