Murals & Mosaics of Spanish Harlem: Telling the Story of a Community

The many colorful murals and mosaics of Spanish Harlem, AKA East Harlem, tell us so much about the history, culture, and politics of this under-appreciated NYC neighborhood. Most of the artworks celebrate the people and culture of the neighborhood. Some of the public art is dedicated to accomplished local citizens, such as the writers Julia de Burgos and Nicholasa Mohr. Other murals and mosaics honor world-famous people such as Celia Cruz and Che Guevara. Some have strong messages for political independence and against colonialism. The artworks also bring into the streets the gorgeous scenery of the tropical islands which so many members of this community left behind.