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Queens artist unveils new mural in Flushing that sends a message of unity

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Artist Gerry Vewer and Councilwoman Sandra Ung pose for a photo in front of Vewer’s new Flushing mural on Wednesday, April 20, 2022. (Photo by Paul Frangipane)

A community mural in Flushing is sending a message of strength and unity following the last two years of hardships and loss amid the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Councilwoman Sandra Ung joined artist Gerry Vewer on Wednesday, April 20, to unveil the new mural that is painted on the wall of a corner store at the intersection of Kissena Boulevard and 60th Avenue. 

A mural by artist Gerry Vewer portrays the Unisphere with its continents shaped together on the corner of Kissena Boulevard and 60th Avenue in Flushing on Wednesday, April 20. (Photo by Paul Frangipane)

The 32-feet-long by 20-feet-high mural depicts the Unisphere surrounded by green vines that symbolize the connection people have with nature, and the continents are shaped together as a visual representation of unity with a quote from Ung about Flushing. 

Artist Gerry Vewer puts the finishing touches on his new mural on the corner of Kissena Boulevard and 60th Avenue in Flushing on Wednesday, April 20. (Photo by Paul Frangipane)

“The main message is sticking together as a unit to get things done,” said Vewer, who spent about a week painting the mural. “No matter what race, what country, we’re on this planet together and we need to move as a unit for the betterment of us all.” 

This is Vewer’s second mural in Queens. His work can also be seen in Long Island City.

According to Ung, Vewer’s friend who lives in the neighborhood saw the blank wall and thought it would be perfect for something to symbolize the diversity of Flushing. 

“I think it’s important especially during this difficult time that we have something that’s hopeful, that symbolizes the diversity and inclusivity that is Flushing,” Ung said. “It’s good that it’s across the street from Queens College where we have so many youths that come from different neighborhoods, all around the world, to actually have something here that they can look at and feel it’s part of who they are.” 

Councilwoman Sandra Ung signs her name to a mural by artist Gerry Vewer on the corner of Kissena Boulevard and 60th Avenue in Flushing on Wednesday, April 20. (Photo by Paul Frangipane)

As the last two years have been difficult, especially in the Asian American community, Ung says it’s important to come together as one. 

“We have to really think about what unifies us, what brings us together. Our differences really are what makes this community, what makes the United States, great,” Ung said.