By: Roger Veros
In a groundbreaking collaboration, WXLLSPACE and acclaimed artist Sonny ‘Sundancer’ Behan are creating a stunning new mural in Rego Park, Queens, symbolizing protection, bravery, and nurturing strength.
Queens, NY – The vibrant neighborhood of Rego Park is becoming home to a breathtaking mural, thanks to a groundbreaking partnership between WXLLSPACE and world-renowned artist Sonny ‘Sundancer’ Behan. This collaboration has resulted in a spectacular public art piece that beautifies the area and carries deep symbolic meaning.
The mural, titled “Lionheart” and located at 9262 Queens Blvd, Rego Park, NY 11374, features a majestic lioness and her cub, embodying themes of protection, bravery, and nurturing strength. These powerful images align seamlessly with the name and brand of Lionheart, serving as a daily reminder to the community of the potential for new beginnings and the importance of uplifting one another. The mural’s vivid colors and dynamic composition create a space that inspires and fosters a renewed sense of community and connection among residents and visitors.
Sonny Sundancer’s artistic style, known for its unique blend of realism and abstraction, can be found in galleries and public spaces worldwide, from South Africa to New York. His commitment to highlighting the importance of protecting the natural world has led him to collaborate with prominent organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund, United Nations, and UNICEF. Through these partnerships, Sonny has worked to raise awareness for conservation efforts, making his art beautiful and impactful.
Jordan Giha, the founder of WXLLSPACE, has brought this project to life. His company focuses on enhancing the aesthetic appeal of urban spaces by commissioning stunning murals that contribute to neighborhoods’ cultural and economic vitality. Giha’s passion for street art and his dedication to amplifying artists’ voices have played a crucial role in the success of this venture.
“As a street art enthusiast, I enjoy amplifying artists’ voices and using their work to add value and character to properties. Our venture is more than a marketplace; it’s a community committed to the transformative power of art,” said Giha.
The Lionheart mural marks a significant moment for Rego Park, offering a beacon of hope and a reminder of the community’s resilience and strength. The mural enhances the visual landscape and serves as a powerful representation of unity and support.
In the bustling heart of Rego Park, Queens, a new beacon of hope is rising in Lionheart, a transitional housing development created by the renowned community development organization Westhab. Founded in 1981 to address the affordable housing crisis in Westchester County, Westhab has evolved into a comprehensive entity that provides housing and essential services such as employment assistance, youth programs, and support for seniors, veterans, young adults, and the disabled. Their mission extends to both Westchester County and New York City, aiming to build communities and change lives through supportive housing and social services.
Lionheart is a testament to Westhab’s unwavering dedication to supporting needy communities. Designed to embody shelter, care, and courage, this new sanctuary provides a safe haven where families can rebuild their lives with dignity and support. More than just a building, Lionheart represents a fresh start and a place of renewal and resilience.
To reflect these values, Westhab has partnered with WXLLSPACE, a full-service mural art – -tech company known for transforming spaces with stunning mural art. WXLLSPACE connects artists with property developers worldwide to create vibrant, community-driven art that enhances any environment, managing all aspects of mural projects from concept to installation. Their commitment to creativity, transparency, and community-driven initiatives aligns perfectly with Westhab’s mission.
In this collaborative effort, WXLLSPACE has commissioned a mural by the acclaimed artist Sonny ‘Sundancer’ Behan. Sonny is celebrated for his magnificent large-scale wildlife murals and intricately detailed oil paintings that blend realism with abstraction. His art, found in galleries and public spaces from South Africa to New York, captures the movement and essence of the natural world. Sonny’s work aims to highlight the need to protect and preserve nature, and he has collaborated with prestigious organizations like the World Wildlife Fund, United Nations, UNICEF, IFAW, Global Citizen, and Discovery Inc. to create public art installations that raise awareness for conservation efforts.
Sonny Sundancer’s mural for Lionheart will feature a lioness and her cub, symbolizing protection, bravery, and nurturing strength. This powerful imagery perfectly aligns with Lionheart’s name and ethos, serving as a daily reminder of the potential for new beginnings and the importance of uplifting one another. The mural will transform the new Lionheart building into a vibrant public space, radiating hope and inspiration for both residents and the wider community.
The collaboration between Westhab, WXLLSPACE, and Sonny Sundancer represents a confluence of art, community service, and social impact. It highlights the transformative power of public art to foster a sense of pride, connection, and inspiration. The Lionheart mural is not just a piece of art; it is a symbol of the courage and care provided within its walls, a beacon of hope for those seeking shelter and a new beginning.
For more information or to experience the mural in person, visit Lionheart at 9262 Queens Blvd, Rego Park, NY 11374. Reporters interested in covering this story and interviewing the artist behind this powerful work can contact WXLLSPACE for further details and scheduling. This is a unique opportunity to delve into the creative process and the collaborative efforts that brought this inspiring mural to life.
Published by: Nelly Chavez