In 2016, led by the Newark Downtown District, the country’s longest mural, “Gateways to Newark: Portraits,” was conceived and created along Route 21, McCarter Highway. Spanning more than 1.34 miles, this mural features 18 pieces by local, national, and international artists, forming a multi-dimensional portrait of Newark’s communities and unyielding spirit. Located in one of the city’s busiest entryways, “Gateway to Newark: Portraits” is seen by nearly 1.1 million commuters and residents each month.
The artworks reflect how the people see Newark, presenting images celebrating the city’s historical and contemporary local leaders, icons, residents, and the memory of those who have passed on. Themes of family, tradition, play, and joy illustrate and bridge visuals from many cultural communities rooted in Newark. In 2024, the mural was restored, with some pieces updated to further reflect the commitment to maintaining Newark’s public art, cementing its importance in creative place-making, and developing spaces of community pride and representation.
Gateways to Newark: {Portraits}
Four Corners Public Arts is a collaboration that will include sidewalk murals and the installation of murals on 10 building facades on Beaver Street and Treat Place in Downtown Newark. The goal of this project is to revitalize blighted areas at these sites and create a public space that everyone can frequent and enjoy. Local artists are invited to propose concepts based on Newark history.
The effort is a partnership between the City and the Newark Economic Development Corporation (NCEDC), NDD, Newark Arts, and local property owners RBH Group and Paramount Assets. The project is funded via public and private contributions.
The NDD is a proud supporter of the Newark Arts Community and participates in an ongoing office exhibition. The NDD’s office space is open for local galleries to exhibit their work. Exhibits can last up to six (6) months and the galleries are able to display an information sheet and price list for those who may be interested in purchasing a piece of art. At the end of each run, NDD staff members vote on their favorite piece of the collection, which is then purchased to support the local artist.
Recent exhibits have been curated by Aljira, Artfront Galleries, Gallery Aferro, and Cement Gallery.
For any questions contact Marketing@downtownnewark.com.
60 Park Place
Newark, NJ 07102
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