Summer 2018, I got wind of a Call For Artists from my friend Chinon Maria as she had been selected to start painting outdoors down at the World Trade Center site. At almost the instant I began mocking up proposals I received a message from Australia’s Brolga asking if I’d assist in painting his mural as he’d just been approved. I accepted and as we worked our 12-13 hours days, it became apparent there were more spaces available around the site so I stayed pitching every night, photographing and mocking up potential concepts.
Once we wrapped on Brolga’s masterpiece, Todd Grey, who I had met on-site, hired me to work with him and his team to create his epic pop art masterwork. About a week in, I began talking with Silverstein Properties about their vision when they asked if I’d be interested in curating the massive Church Street wall. I immediately said "yes." Silverstein’s Robert Marcucci explained a kaleidoscopic, fantasy city, vibrant and joyful. They wanted to speak to the transportation hub aspect of the property and bring it new life. I immediately got to work and submitted a few of my favorite artists who I thought would ‘bring it’. Silverstein responded by asking me to pitch something based on previous artwork i had submitted.
At this point, having spent about a month on site, I noticed that all of the visitors were taking photos, posing for selfies and interacting with the environment. Taking a step back for the perspective from Church street, I realized the wall was nicely positioned with One World Trade at center and the Oculus and Federal Building perfectly framing on either side. In front of the wall was a brand new park so I knew visitors would be gathering and spending time there. I decided to create a Selfie Wall using the recommended transportation theme, including fantasy-colored characters with likable and emotive features that people could pose with. I included construction workers, tourists, a woman walking her dog etc. to reflect the diversity and energy of downtown NYC.
After going back and forth for a couple of days with Silverstein Properties, we presented to Port Authority, they were ecstatic, approved and rushed right into production. The next 2 weeks were filled with hard work but even more magic as I needed a lot of help from my friends to get this thingdone in time. Right away, I hired the talented Perri McKenzie who I had met working with Brolga and we began with the details. On the June 10th I was given the 6/27 deadline and the pressure was on!!
Right on time, Riisa Boogie/Boogie Rez and Doug from World Trade Gallery came through with volunteers that wanted to be a part of the journey and for that I am forever grateful! The good homies Dylan Bauvez, Dylan Thomas Burns and Mason Eve all came out to pitch in as well as World Trade Gallery’s Carolina and her friend Joel which helped to get a LOT of paint up the first two days. Then I met the awesome spirit that is Denise Cummings and instantly had her join the team. Around this time I was also introduced to Jack Miles who is a High School Junior and artist looking for a cool summer experience. We all hit it off right away and the team was set. Todd was wrapping up his mural at about 10 days in and like clockwork Pitch Black joined the team that would finish a few very productive days later.
Without everyone mentioned here and the literally thousands of supporters coming by each day showing love, this would not have been possible. Sincerely grateful for all of the wonderful messages I receive each day from visitors from all over the world. Many do not have these expressions of public art where they come from and are equal parts inspired and amazed. ❤️
The mural has been used as a backdrop for quite a few productions including features on The Village / NBC, Vogue feature on Stranger Things 2, Crayola and more!
* Assist on Todd Grey’s Mega Mural at WTC site. Worked closely with Todd and team to create his adhesive vinyl cut stencil masterwork.
* Assist on Brolga’s Mega Mural at WTC site. Worked closely with Tom and team to create his brush painted masterwork.
* Assist on Brolga’s Mega Mural at WTC site. Worked closely with Tom and team to create his brush painted masterwork.