Public art has a unique ability to bring beauty and vibrancy to urban environments and can have a powerful impact on the communities that inhabit them. Our installations have been an overwhelming success, not just in terms of artistry, but also in terms of the positive effects it has had on local spaces and economies. At WXLLSPACE, we’re constantly seeking ways to innovate and push boundaries with art and technology for people to further enjoy and one medium that we’re pushing for is the food industry.
The food industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and innovations emerging every day. One of the most exciting developments in recent years has been the incorporation of culture and art into the food scene. This not only enhances the overall dining experience but also helps to create a sense of community and belonging. One food hall that is leading the way in this trend is the popular Urbanspace. You may have seen them in Chelsea Market, but their newest location is in the lobby of Zero Irving - a new ground-up, tech-focused mixed-use/office building recently completed by RAL Development in Union Square. Recently, they added a new mural that is not only beautiful but also meaningful and has helped to increase foot traffic, particularly among foodies.
Enhancing Public Spaces
Zero Irving
As part of Zero Irving’s public benefit commitments to the New York City Economic Development Corporation, Urbanspace set out to reserve 25% of the vendor spots for first-time entrepreneurs or start-up companies that have operated for less than four years. This is a great example of how Urbanspace is providing opportunities for first-time entrepreneurs and start-up companies to succeed in the food industry. This has had a great impact on the local economy, stimulating and providing employment opportunities for these entrepreneurs.
UrbanspaceNYC
Urbanspace has been a staple in New York City food halls in the last decade. The food hall is known for its delicious food, excellent service, and affordable prices. This new space offers a wide variety of cuisines from around the world, including new innovative restaurants such as Bao by Kaya, Casa Toscana, GoFish , Pita Yeero, Plant Junkie, Twenty One grains, GOAT Cafe, Summer Salt, Kid Brother, to name a few. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, with a mix of communal seating and traditional tables as well as an outdoor patio. However, Urbanspace knew the experience had to be more than just about the food. They wanted to provide customers with an immersive experience that incorporated culture and art. That's when they decided to commission a mural to be painted on one of the walls of the food hall.
WXLLSPACE
Our mural installations have been instrumental in improving public spaces across the community. Our murals, painted by artists from all over the world, have transformed drab walls and buildings into vibrant works of art that can be appreciated by the entire community. Our murals have brought life to public spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages people to visit and explore these areas.
Nohemi Olvera
The mural was created by illustrator and mural artist, Nohemi Olvera from Mexico City, and is a stunning depiction of what culture and sharing is. The piece is done in vibrant peaches and greens and is approximately 15 ft x 20 ft in size. The mural is not only beautiful but also meaningful. The design of the mural was inspired by the idea of bringing people together through culture and food. The mural portrays a diverse group of people, each bringing a different ingredient to the table, representing the diversity of the food hall. The vibrant colors used in the mural symbolize the energy and joy that comes with sharing a meal with friends. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of community, and of the unique bonds that can be formed over food. The mural is a testament to the food hall's commitment to providing a unique and inclusive experience for its customers. It has helped to create a sense of community and belonging among customers. Many customers have commented on how the mural has made them feel more connected to the food hall and the city as a whole.
Urbanspace at Union Square has shown that a simple addition like a mural can have a significant impact on a food hall. Our mural arts project has been a great success, adding vibrancy to the community and providing many benefits to public spaces and the local economy. We are proud to have made a positive impact and look forward to continuing this project in the years ahead. Next time you are on 14th Street in New York City, grab some amazing food and check out this beautiful mural.
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