Street Art Mural Tour
The city of Elizabeth is currently undergoing many beautification projects, including the creation of vivid and colorful street murals by local artists. Here’s what you need to know about the history and significance of these murals, which never fail to captivate visitors and locals alike.
The Elizabeth Renaissance Foundation
These vibrant Street Art Murals were commissioned by The Elizabeth Renaissance Foundation in partnership with the Elizabeth Artistry Commission, which provides funding for various projects designed to beautify the city of Elizabeth. The Foundation’s ultimate goal is to sponsor extensive citywide beautification projects including wall murals, lighted buildings, monuments, signage, and more.
The Street Art Murals are part of an art project that extends throughout the city and celebrates Elizabeth’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage. The murals represent a collaboration between the Foundation, the Elizabeth Board of Education, and local Elizabeth artists who design them.
The Street Art Mural Tour
Elizabeth’s Street Art Mural Tour is a self-guided tour where you can walk among the murals and admire them year-round, carefully examine each intricate detail, at any time of day, and take plenty of photos to share on social media.
The magnificent mural at 125 Broad Street is named Elizabeth’s Renaissance is Underway… Revitalizing Midtown! and was created by artist Dario Scholis. Born in Quito, Ecuador, Scholis studied at the Corcoran School of Arts in Washington, D.C., and has created many public art projects, including Elizabeth’s September 11 Monument, Union County’s Art Outside the Box Project, and historic slides from recycled signage along the Elizabeth River Trail.
The Broad Street mural features shadowy figures in motion against vibrant backgrounds, engaging in various creative and athletic pursuits. It’s designed to celebrate the diversity and richness of midtown Elizabeth’s arts, cultural, and business communities.
You’ll also want to stop by the stunning Julian Kean Mural, which was designed by Jubenal “Juvy” Torres, an artist, graphic designer, and Elizabeth native. Torres graduated from Kean University with a BFA in Graphic Design and is known for his bold, colorful paintings, drawings, ink, and digital work.
The Julian Kean Mural depicts the heritage and history of Elizabeth, including the introduction of steam trains which made travel across the vast American continent possible. In the mural, you can also see local landmarks such as Liberty Hall, which was built in 1772 and is now a museum and National Historic Landmark. You can also see the image of Julian Halstead Kean, a member of the famed Kean family who sold the land he owned to the city of Elizabeth.
These vibrant murals represent both the past and the current history of Elizabeth and dazzle viewers with their bright colors and intricate details. Be sure to take your time to walk down the street and take in every detail of these murals, pose for pictures, and then share them online using the hashtag #ElizRenaissance Foundation.
Whether you’re an Elizabeth local or visitor, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to admire and engage with these incredible works of art!
About the Mural
This 40 ft. tall mural features a series of staples throughout Elizabeth, New Jersey. In the middle reads “ELIZABETH” in big, bold, outlined letters. Stemming for an original 1930-1945 postcard, encased in the words holds vivid imagery of different scenic treasures in our beautiful city. On the left stands a daring Minuteman. As one of the oldest streets in North America & an important portal during the Revolutionary War, Elizabeth Avenue is anchored by Union Square. The Minuteman statue marks the avenue at the site of the Continental Outpost at the battle of June 8, 1870, when a column of 5,000 British Regulars landed in Port Elizabeth. To the right of the mural holds the cupola that sits right on top of Elizabeth City Hall. The bright copper green & gold adornments overlook the fearless city that lies before it. Being the central location of all business & citywide endeavors, it was the building of choice for representing Elizabeth.
The lower half of the mural holds a beautiful staple of all of Union County, Warinanco Park. Generations of local residents have fond memories of skating, walking, and bike riding in Warinanco Park which hosts nearly 50,000 visitors per year. The specific scene in the mural features a set of people that I hold dear to my heart, Mr. Luis Martinez & Mrs. Erica Ray are pictured walking through the park as they always would before his passing on October 25th, 2021. Mr. Luis would love to go fishing & take his 4 grandchildren with him to enjoy the outdoors, catch a ride on the boats, or watch them play as a family.
The colorful background was an artistic choice. Creating a dynamic focal point for anyone driving by.
About the Mural Artists:
Bree Maejor
Bree Maejor, a dynamic artist & muralist, proudly hails from the vibrant Garden State of New Jersey. Originating from Clifton, Bree's transformative journey led her to Elizabeth in 2014, where she discovered her artistic passion through acrylic painting. Fueling her creative pursuit, Bree graduated from Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy. Despite being a recent addition to the world of muralists, Bree's impact has been nothing short of exceptional. Just three years ago, she completed her first mural at age 19, an experience that ignited a passion to create more artwork around the city. Her art serves not only as an aesthetic enhancement to urban landscapes but to foster community engagement and unity.
“Elizabeth Youth Theatre Ensemble" Arts Program, led by influential artist & director, Theodore Perkins, provided the perfect platform to explore her creativity, amplifying her vision & determination to make a positive impact with her art. Which she will forever be grateful for.
Bree's artistry can be seen across various locations in New Jersey, from a memorial mural in a school in Paramus to various restaurants on Halsey St. in Newark. Her versatility knows no bounds, with her paintings becoming the subject of interpretation in a Short Film Awards event at the Prudential Center. From chalk to spray paint, she embraces a wide range of mediums, showcasing her artistic skill through diverse forms of expression. Her talent has been celebrated in the “International Women's Exhibition”, and her paintings have found homes in the hands of appreciative patrons.
Among her proudest accomplishments stands an outdoor basketball court for the “No Boys Allowed League”—an organization in which she was once a part of. Bree has contributed to social justice, including a "Black Lives Matter" mural when the movement first emerged. As Bree Maejor continues to capture hearts and minds with her vibrant art, she harnesses the power of creative expression to inspire change and unite communities.
Mario "Teck" Cena
New Jersey native, Mario "Teck" Cena was born and raised in Passaic. He started his involvement with graffiti in 1982. After being introduced to graffiti (still in its infancy) by his childhood friends, Mario was enamored with the art form and the developing subculture. He aspired to be creative and live his dream of becoming a successful artist. Mario's passion is evident in anything he touches with his dynamic talents. His vigor and skills have allowed him to travel and attend global urban art events. From the prestigious Art Basel event in Miami to his home country of Argentina, Mario has collaborated with his contemporaries on many prominent and high-profile commissions and projects, enjoying global notoriety and much success.
Mario's love for the culture has fueled his dream of leaving a lasting impression on the culture. Participating in events such as: the Pintura Project (Art Basel, Miami), Art of Basketball, and the Meeting of Styles, he has been an icon and a fixture in the graffiti community for several decades. His many contributions have been featured in numerous media publications, including the comprehensive book: The History of American Graffiti (published by Harper Collins). His works have appeared in many music videos and various media outlets, including Mobb Deep and Chris Brown, to name a few.
About the Mural
"How our world is transforming what we had before. Feel alive as the real nature and organic details now to the humans makes us feel in everything virtual."
About the Mural Artist:
Sara Fernández Londoño
Plastic, visual and tattoo arts artist. She was born in Medellín, Colombia on February 4, 1989. She studied at the Débora Arango School of Plastic Arts. She graduated in plastic and visual arts from the Ministry of Education and Culture of Colombia. From an early age, her great talent for painting was seen, since she grew up among canvases and colors among a family of artists, her parents who encouraged her talent. From a very young age, in her basic studies, she received honors for her pictorial ability. Sara Fernández, together with her family and other artists, belonged to the artistic movement in Parque Lleras (Pueblo, Medellín) for many years it was a great school for the elaboration of beautiful works, in oil and acrylic, which she exhibited outdoors in a cheerful atmosphere. and bohemian that would come locally and internationally. Around the year 2001 Sara decided to move to the United States (New Jersey), where currently her artistic career is carried out by applying her art to restaurants, houses and many establishments in combination with tattooing. She also starred in "art and wine" events, becoming known as an artistic teacher, teaching children and adults. Awakening the inner artist that she only seeks to express herself. She hopes to continue growing as a person and an artist giving the best of herself and thanking all the people and identities that have been part of her life project called ART.
sarartmurals@gmail.com | Follow on Instagram @sarartmurals
Sponsored in part by: Elizabeth Avenue Partnership – www.ElizabethAvenue.org
About Elizabeth Avenue Partnership:
The Elizabeth Avenue Partnership (EAP) is a non-profit organization, designated by the City of Elizabeth to manage the Elizabeth Avenue Special Improvement District (SID). Since 1999, the EAP’s mission has been to revitalize and enhance all aspects of the shopping district. By focusing on the following areas; image and appearance, safety and security, parking, promotions, events and quality business development, the Elizabeth Avenue Shopping District has become a safer and more attractive place for visitors, residents and merchants alike.
The EAP works with the local business community to ensure a safe and clean environment, contracting a private firm, Commercial District Services, LLC to provide street cleaning and Ambassador Segway Services, power washing and quality of life services. The EAP also funds an extra duty walking patrol to make sure officers are walking the beat and interacting with merchants. The EAP is comprised of a dedicated Board of Directors and hard working staff who act as liaisons with the business and property owners to connect them with City, County and Municipal services, funding and grants while troubleshooting downtown issues merchants may have on a daily basis.
The EAP has placed nearly 70 flower planters throughout the district and has worked with the Elizabeth Public School Art Departments on district art projects including wooden seasonal cutouts of Scarecrows, Toy Soldiers and Flowers in addition to having the art students paint murals on traffic utility boxes located throughout the district. This collaboration with the EPS garnered a "Best of the Best" Award by Downtown New Jersey in 2017, the second award of it's kind won by the EAP.
The EAP is also responsible for many promotions and events including a Hot Dog Day Celebration, Hispanic Heritage Month Concert, Halloween Trunk or Treat Event, Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Events on each Saturday in December, an Easter Egg Event and this year the organization's first ever Pride Day Event. Each of these events is in collaboration with an organization called Buckets, LLC who provides Pop Up Shops and entertainment.
District Banners, Holiday Lights, Ribbon Cuttings, Power Washing, an updated directory and district inventory, restaurant directory and promoting the district at city-wide events are all examples of the services provided by the district management company known as the EAP.
About the Mural
"The artwork itself is supposed to inspire children in hopes that they would pursue art themselves, not only children but adults to tap back into their creative spirit."
This mural brings us briefly into the history of what made our current civilization. The first time steam trains rolled into the industry completely changed the paradigm. Distant lands become instantly reachable and the journey across the country was cut down from months of travel to just a few days. The invention of trains represents one of the most important times in human history leading to the expansion and development of our modern world. Just like the steam locomotive made its Mark in History. We want to remind the viewer that they have that impact as well. We hope this serves as a positive affirmation for the community to find a place in the world where they can have a higher purpose and make their mark in history. Shown in the mural as well is Liberty Hall which was built in 1772 by Gov. William Livingston. Many distinguished visitors came to travel through Liberty Hall such as Alexander Hamilton, Washington, and Lafayette. The house now serves as a museum and collects furniture, clothing, manuscripts, books, and other historical artifacts including a signed letter from George Washington. The museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a National Historic Landmark. Alongside Liberty Hall is one of the Kean family members, Julian Halstead Kean. The street itself where the mural is located is named after Julian after selling the land he owned to the city of Elizabeth.
About the Mural Artist:
Juvy Torres
design@juvytorres.com | Follow on Instagram @formless.studios | www.juvytorres.com
"Visionary artist, designer, dreamer, thinker, meditator, and lover of all that is the soul."
Juvy Torres is a graphic designer and artist born and raised in Elizabeth, New Jersey. He is inspired by the journey of personal growth, dreams, and visionary states. When I’m not working as a full-time graphic designer, I focus on creating bold colorful creations through the use of paintings, drawings, ink, and digital work. As a graduate from Kean University where I received my BFA in Graphic Design, I’ve had the opportunity to work on various projects for clients ranging from branding, illustrations, websites, printed material, social media content, and everything in between. You will always find me strapped with my creative arsenal of sketchpads and pens because you can never be too sure when inspiration might strike.
About the Mural
Elizabeth’s Renaissance is Underway… Revitalizing Midtown! This art mural is intended to serve as a reminder of Elizabeth’s vibrancy; highlighting the diversity of midtown’s culture, arts, and business community. These art murals pave the way for the behind-the-scenes construction work of our “signs of progress!”
About the Mural Artist:
Dario Scholis
dscholis@aol.com
Born in Quito Ecuador, Dario Scholis started to paint as a young child. He graduated from the School of Fine Arts at the Central University of Quito, and later attended the Corcoran School of Arts in Washington, D.C. Dario has a history of private and public art which now takes a new direction with the creation of the murals at the Hersch Tower; a project made possible by the Elizabeth Renaissance Foundation. Previous public projects include Elizabeth’s September 11 Monument in honor of local victims of 9/11 which stands at the Elizabeth Historic Midtown Train Plaza; the metal ornaments at the front of the Elizabethport Community Center; Union County’s Art Outside the Box Project, Somerset County’s Art on Traffic Control
Boxes, and historic slides from recycled signage portraying the rich history of the city, as part of the Elizabeth River Trail project developed by Groundworks Elizabeth. Dario’s most recent private project is a collaboration with the Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless during the Covid-19 pandemic. Dario has created interactive art projects made possible by the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders, focusing on recycling. One such project was the annual "Paint by the Pond" which featured colorful miniature houses made from recycled cardboard boxes and other household items that are usually discarded. This project encouraged free artistic expression and provided local families an opportunity to come together and enjoy the County’s parks. Dario’s latest project, also made possible by the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders, is the Recycled Art Wildlife Walk, a collection of oversized sculptures of animals created from recycled plastic bottles. Emphasizing the importance of recycling and caring for the environment, the colorful wildlife collection was displayed in October 2020 at the Trailside Nature Center in Mountainside, New
Jersey.
About Mural Artist:
Marcel Goyen
Quote: "I really enjoyed working on this project. I think what I like the most is how street art can turn an eyesore into something beautiful the whole neighborhood can enjoy!"
Marcel is an Uruguayan-born artist. He started painting and taking art classes when he was 8 years old. In his teenage years, he discovered tattooing and fell in love with that art form and has been tattooing all over the world for more than 25 years. He now resides in New Jersey where he co-owns Orpheus Tattoo Studio in North Brunswick. Over the years he’s worked in a variety of different mediums, from pencil and charcoal to airbrushing and oil painting. The pandemic gave him the time to explore a new one: street art. The large-scale format really appealed to him, because in this new art form, you paint with your whole body. He’s done murals for numerous restaurants and lounges and now you can see him growing and doing whole sides of buildings. He’s gonna continue exploring large-scale imagery as well as tattooing, painting, and any other medium that catches his eye!
The City of Elizabeth Neighborhood Preservation Program provided funding for this mural through the Department of Community Affairs Grant. The NPP allocates annual funding to various neighborhood improvement and beautification programs. The purpose of this collaboration with the City of Elizabeth Artistry Commission and the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce is to utilize the City’s artistic and cultural resources, which will also be used in future murals within Elizabeth.
