34th Street Bridge

Bringing Vibrancy to Urban Spaces: The 34th Street Bridge Mural

In the autumn of 2020, ALBOE received a notable invitation—to adorn the 34th Street Bridge, nestled between 10th and Dyer Avenue, with a captivating mural. This initiative was a collaborative effort between the Port Authority and the Hudson Yards Hell’s Kitchen Alliance. The mural's purpose? To elevate the aesthetics of the jersey barriers that also function as the overpass for the Lincoln Tunnel. This artistic endeavor seamlessly integrated with an array of public art installations, forming a vibrant tapestry within the dynamic intersection of three bustling NYC neighborhoods: Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, and Hudson Yards.

The inception of this mural took root eight months after New York City implemented lockdown measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The initial sketch featured a collection of 'tubes,' but as the on-site creative process unfolded, the mural organically evolved into a meticulously unplanned arrangement of interwoven striped tubes.

In the backdrop of its creation, New York City's bustling diversity was paradoxically subdued due to the pandemic's impact. The very city that thrives on uniting millions through shared experiences, exploration, and social interactions suddenly found itself grappling with fear, uncertainty, and physical isolation. The pandemic necessitated a new norm of isolated encounters, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe distance. Given this context, the mural's design sought to evoke a sense of nostalgia among passersby, sparking conversations among strangers, rekindling connections within families, and fostering interactions between friends.

The vibrant tribute to NYC's resilient spirit truly came alive through its dynamic colors and the dialogues it ignited. This kaleidoscopic masterpiece effectively united children, adults, residents, and tourists as they marveled at the artwork spanning two expansive 80-foot walls, each divided by 34th Street. Crafted meticulously through a combination of hand and spray paint, this explosion of color serves as an enduring reminder that regardless of the forces that may momentarily separate us, our connections endure through the shared memories and aspirations that give profound meaning to our lives.