A Vision of Growth

  • “A Vision of Growth” spans this wall in Coney Island, starting in nighttime darkness and moving into a cheery daytime beach scene.
  • After several painting activities, the team delivers its mural proposal to a packed, enthusiastic room.
  • Before they can begin painting, the youth artists must prime the wall with white paint.
  • With a few adorned with “I HEART NY” shirts, the team poses in front of a nearly complete mural.
  • A youth participant gives an impassioned speech on her time painting the mural.
  • It is just another day on the Coney Island boardwalk, as captured by the Groundswell artists.

Project Description

As part of Groundswell’s Summer Leadership Institute (SLI) 2008, artists Alex Pimienta and Jessica Poplawski worked with a team of youth to create a colorful mural celebrating the people, changing communities, and future of Coney Island. The mural features images of Coney Island landmarks surrounded by the richness and diversity of the community. The boardwalk and shore make up the right half of the piece, signifying the importance of the geographical location to Coney Island’s vitality. Street signs read “welcome” and note important street names near the beach. There is a child playing and a mother in traditional clothes carrying her child. Two boys play basketball while an artist paints the local sights and a couple enjoys a quiet moment. Finally, a scene depicts a child studying science. This signifies the Coney Island of the future, when children of the neighborhood will grow to be tomorrow’s leaders.

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Project Info

Location: 2704 Mermaid Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11224

Fun Facts

Suggested Activity
Spend a day out in the sun at Coney Island. If it’s in season, take a ride on the Cyclone.
Research
The Coney Island Cyclone was nearly destroyed to make way for a New York Aquarium expansion. In 1972, a “Save the Cyclone” campaign kept the rollercoaster from being demolished. The ride is still enjoyed today.
Question about the Mural
What languages are included in the street signs?