Artistic tribute to Brooklyn community unveiled at local hospital: 'I was crying'

BROOKLYN (PIX11) – Residents of Brownsville gathered Friday to celebrate the unveiling of a new mural titled "Colors of My City," located on the side of Brookdale Hospital Medical Center.

 This artwork, created by artist Layqa Nuna Yawar, is a tribute to the local community, encapsulating its spirit and rich cultural narratives.

The event attracted numerous community members, including Patricia Jackson, a nearby Vital Brookdale supportive housing complex resident. Jackson expressed her emotional connection to the mural, which features her crocheting, a beloved hobby that symbolizes comfort and creativity. 

"It makes me feel good. I was happy. I was crying. I was excited," Jackson shared, highlighting her hope that the mural will inspire others in the community to embrace their passions.

Yawar, known for his community-focused art, emphasized that the mural's creation involved extensive collaboration with local residents. Through a series of workshops, Yawar gathered stories and insights from community members, ensuring that the mural authentically reflects their experiences. 

He took over 200 photographs of local faces and hands, which informed the final design. "We create a collaborative space, have workshops with people, ask them what they want to see in a mural, how they want to be represented," Yawar explained.

The mural not only showcases individual stories but also incorporates significant local landmarks, such as the Brooklyn Bridge and the nearby three train, creating a visual narrative that celebrates the entire Brownsville community.

 "Our residents at Vital Brookdale deserved something beautiful, something that honored them and the whole neighborhood," said Melanie Hartzog, President and CEO of The New York Foundling, the organization behind the mural's commissioning.

"Colors of My City" serves as more than just a piece of art; it is intended to be a source of pride and reflection for the community. Jackson hopes that as people pass by, they will see the colors and stories represented and feel a sense of connection to their own lives and experiences. 

This mural is part of a broader initiative to enhance community spaces through art, fostering unity and a sense of belonging among re