About the Artist and Partner
Bianca Romero
Bianca is a Korean/Spanish NYC based artist, muralist, and creative director. Romero's artistic style is a direct reflection of her NYC youth and multi-cultural upbringing. Recently she partnered with Maker's Mark for a city-wide campaign "Celebrate the Remarkable in NYC," featuring eleven custom murals all over NYC, limited edition bottle labels, and more.
Bianca has also created murals and other artwork for Rag & Bone, EFFEN Vodka, Ludlow Fitness, Northeast Music Festival, Food Network, and more. Additionally, she's exhibited her paintings in galleries in NYC, Philadelphia, and Miami—at the renowned Art Basel show.
Spread Love: Stop Asian Hate
Mural Concept
The rapid rise in post-pandemic anti-Asian violence increases the urgency of raising awareness about these hate crimes. Holding space for the Asian community and spreading an anti-racist message is what drives NYC based Korean/Spanish artist and muralist Bianca Romero who painted this public mural—Spread Love: Stop Asian Hate, in NYC.
The phrase "hold space for..." has been recently popularized. It refers to allowing or creating space physically, mentally, and emotionally for an individual or group, and being present for them. It means putting your focus on someone to support them as they feel their feelings. An important aspect of holding space is managing judgment while you are present.
The concept for this mural is to acknowledge the Asian community and enable them to claim space. The idea of “blending in” is deeply rooted in Asian-American culture—to not make waves or be loud and disruptive. This mural challenges that notion by rightfully claiming a space for the Asian community to make their presence known while promoting unity, compassion, pride, and justice.
Located on 160 Eldridge St, New York, NY
Corner of Delancy St / Eldridge St
Thrive Collective
Thrive Collective is a NYC Arts Organization and producer on this project. Thrive Collective creates hope and opportunity through arts and mentoring in and around public schools. The organization's core programs—murals, music, media, mentors, and sports—connect young artists with local schools as teaching artists, art directors, and mentors. Since 2011, more than 15,000 students and 3,000 volunteers have completed 165 school and community mural projects totaling 75,000 sq. ft. of public art.
Let's make history together!
Bringing you NYC's biggest and the world's first-ever social and environmentally sustainable Green Murals for Good Festival in the summer of 2024. Join us in leaving a lasting imprint on Chinatown, NYC and our planet! ❤️