Under Mayo Spano’s leadership, the City of Yonkers has a vibrant public art scene, with numerous murals, sculptures, and art installations enhancing its urban landscape. Here are some notable examples:
Murals
- “We The People” Mural: Situated near the Yonkers Riverfront Library along the Metro-North Line, this mural by CJ Priester is a collaboration between the City of Yonkers and Yonkers Arts. It celebrates the city’s diversity and features an augmented reality component.
- “Parkway Love” Mural: Designed by Jason Naylor, this mural on Bronx River Road is part of a city initiative to combat graffiti.
- “On The Come Up” Mural: Located at Calcagno Homes, this mural by Robin Alcantara honors Yonkers native Ella Fitzgerald.
- “Grandpa” Mural: A piece by Fumero, located at 1 Larkin Plaza.
- “Fly With Me” Mural: By Daisy Rosetti, located at 242 New Main Street.
Sculptures
- Yonkers Sculpture Meadow on the Hudson: A permanent sculpture park at 20 Water Grant Street, overlooking the Hudson River. It features the “Cloud Living Room” by Barbara Segal and was recently restored.
- Enslaved Africans’ Rain Garden: Located along the Yonkers Hudson River esplanade at 20 Water Grant Street, this garden features five life-size bronze sculptures by Vinnie Bagwell honoring the legacy of enslaved Africans in New York.
- Ella Fitzgerald Statue: Located at the Metro-North Railroad Station Plaza at 5 Buena Vista Avenue, this statue commemorates the jazz legend.
- “Meditation Circle”: A sculpture by Paul Greco, located at 20 Water Grant Street.
- “Cloud Living Room”: A sculpture by Barbara Segal, located within the Yonkers Sculpture Meadow on the Hudson.
Galleries and arts organizations
- Riverfront Art Gallery: A 1,450 square foot space on the 4th floor of the Riverfront Library, showcasing contemporary and acclaimed works, with a focus on local artists.
- Yonkers Arts: A non-profit organization founded in 2007 to promote and encourage the arts in Yonkers, with a gallery and performance space in the Carpet Mills Arts District.
- Blue Door Art Center: A community art gallery hosting shows and offering free admission.
- Yoho Artists: An organization supporting a diverse community of artists in the Carpet Mills Arts District.
- ArtsWestchester: Supports arts and culture in Westchester County, including Yonkers, through grants and programs.
Other initiatives
- Yonkers Arts Weekend (YAW): An annual event attracting thousands of visitors to galleries and art spaces throughout the city.
- Public Art Program: ArtsWestchester partners with local organizations like Ridge Hill to implement public art projects, including murals and banners.
- Yonkers Arts Initiative: Provides grants to organizations and individual artists for cultural activities and new artwork in Yonkers.
- Yonkers Waterfront Walking Tour: An event exploring the Saw Mill River and Hudson River waterfront, including its historical and artistic aspects.
These examples demonstrate Yonkers’ commitment to public art, utilizing it to celebrate diversity, honor history, and revitalize the urban environment.