Hudson County Executive Craig Guy, County Commissioner Bill O’Dea and the Board of County Commissioners unveiled a mural on the intersection of Route 1&9 and Route 440 in Jersey City on Monday. The mural, titled “Hudson County, N.J.” and created by artist Avery Nice. It shows hallmarks of Hudson County, including the names of the 12 municipalities, the Pulaski Skyway, Bayonne Bridge, Frank Sinatra, the Statue of Liberty, PATH train, and images of plants and animals native to Hudson County.
The County Executive stated, “I am always thrilled to celebrate the arts and invest in local artists as we work together as a community to beautify our environment. Since the inception of the Hudson County Cultural & Heritage Affairs County Mural Program, artists have created four large public murals on Hudson County property and have helped us transform these spaces into vibrant, beautiful spaces. With this mural, residents and commuters travelling on Route 1&9 can see and appreciate the many facets of Hudson County. Each time they pass this mural, they will find something new to see and connect with that reminds them of the history, culture, and values of Hudson County.”
Commissioner O’Dea is thrilled with the mural, saying “Jersey City is proud to have this mural alongside the intersection of Route 1&9 and Route 440 that hundreds of residents and commuters drive by each day. Projects that feature public art like this one remind us of the power of art that promotes mental wellbeing and creates a sense of community pride. The Board of County Commissioners and I are proud to support the development of local artists and the success of art projects throughout Hudson County.”
Nice, a large-scale mural artist, worked on the project for three weeks with several assistants. The mural features Hudson County history, wildlife, and nature that is symbolic and significant to the County. With an array of calm relaxing colors that are bright and uplifting, Avery was proud to showcase his passion and talent on this 4,000 square-foot mural.