By Bill Parry
U.S. Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Jackson Heights) joined City Councilman Costa Constantinides (D-Astoria) to unveil the mural they commissioned under the Amtrak bridge overpass on 48th Street between 25th and 28th avenues.
The mural, titled “Astoria Motif,” was created by the non-profit organization 501 See Streets to beautify the residential area and discourage graffiti.
“With the fast-paced life we’re accustomed to in New York City, it’s very important to have murals and other artwork that brighten our neighborhood with their beauty,” Constantinides said. “These types of artistic projects also provide a meaningful and lasting response to graffiti. This mural is a win-win for everyone in the community.”
The artwork contains three installations that depict iconic Astoria scenery. Artist Kenji Takabayashi, who was born and raised in South Ozone Park, thanked Constantinides and Crowley on the mural itself.
“It was an honor to work on something so meaningful for the residents of the neighborhood who treated me as though I lived on their block for the days that I painted,” Takabayashi said. “As a Queens kid, doing something I love so much for my borough meant a lot to me.”
Reach reporter Bill Parry by e-mail at bparr
