With the construction of a ferry terminal connecting Bay Ridge and Midtown Manhattan, the 69th Street Pier would transform a recreational location for Bay Ridge residents into a transportation hub for South Brooklyn commuters. While this evolution would provide the 69th Street Pier with a newfound purpose, natives were left having to travel under a bleak overpass with walls that would act as an eyesore.
On June 12, 2018, Xaverian High School, my alma mater, unveiled their mural, “Diversity,” under the 69th Street overpass, beautifying the pier for its occupants. This public artwork was created in collaboration with the Department of Transportation and Greenman-Pedersen Incorporated, providing Xaverian High School art students with the opportunity to paint a mural that welcomes residents and visitors to the Bay Ridge community.
“Diversity” can be seen by locals who use the tunnel to access the pier and can be viewed by motorists driving westbound on Shore Road and 69th Street. This mural is meant to last and is best seen in the morning and afternoon hours as its bright paints radiate under natural light, allowing Bay Ridge residents to visualize its wide range of colors.
In Xaverian’s mural, a diverse array of sea life– consisting of royal blue seahorses, rose red sharks, multi-colored coral, an orange-red octopus, and many other vibrant sea animals– dominates the foreground. The background of this mural is composed of nineteenth century homes as sky blue row houses can be seen throughout the entirety of the composition. These bright images of sea life draw Bay Ridge commuters and residents’ attention to the diversity of life that can be found not only in nature but in their own community. While the cultural representation of Bay Ridge may be in a state of constant change, the mural pays tribute to Bay Ridge’s history as brownstones stand tall and proud behind its diverse inhabitants. Big white letters posted on a dark green sign towards the entrance of the pier contrast against the light background with the words “BAY RIDGE,” standing out to greet residents and identify their importance as members of a closely integrated community.
While the main objective of the artists was to beautify the overpass, Xaverian’s artwork speaks to every local about the importance of contributing to the culture of Bay Ridge’s dynamic community. As a Xaverian alumnus involved in many community events, “Diversity” represents the efforts of Bay Ridge’s youth in building its community and setting the direction in which this neighborhood is bearing as high school students are taking initiative in shaping public life. Throughout my volunteer work at recurring parades and memorials on 3rd Avenue, Shore Road, and the 69th Street Pier, I have learned about the strong influence of this culturally diverse, united people on the well-being and support of each other. “Diversity” stands as a testament to this neighborhood’s fellowship, giving commuters and recreationalists a mural that brightens their days and reminds them of their niche in this greater picture, transforming what would be a bare tunnel into a friendly and inviting passageway.
By Paul Mastrokostas
