Murals Welcome Shoppers Back to Ridge Hill
Over the past several years, Ridge Hill Shopping Center has become a beacon for colorful public art. A partnership between the Center and ArtsWestchester has produced several commissioned artworks to brighten the Center’s retail space. In the hustle-bustle of shopping and dining, passersby will see a geometrically patterned 2015 mural by Nick Kuszyk. In recent weeks, they will have also come across a collection of newly installed banners that feature designs by artist Alfredo Ponce. Now, the newest additions to the open-air shopping center will be a pair of vibrant murals painted by acclaimed artist Andrea von Bujdoss, or “Queen Andrea.”
Von Bujdoss, who has a list of artistic skills under her belt – fine artist, muralist, graffiti artist, typographer and graphic designer – is inspired by urban landscapes. She makes her mark on each cityscape by creating a fresh veneer of bold colors, patterns and phrases. The new Ridge Hill murals will be painted on the temporary wood panels of retail stores and will remain for as long as those closures persist.
One mural, situated outside of TJ Maxx, beams with a pattern of intermingling colors. The symmetrical abstract design, inspired by the setting sun is, as the artist describes, “hopeful and calming.” According to the artist: “The colorful art will help to address the reduction of engaging public events [at the center], a result of the pandemic. It is also a way to brighten up people’s mood during such a difficult time.”
As such, the second mural, located outside of WestMed, serves to literally welcome shoppers back to the center now that it has reopened after its COVID-related closure. Von Bujdoss’ bold use of color and typographical know-how present a rainbow-colored arrow pattern with one distinct word: Welcome. The arrows act as a way-finding tool, warmly leading shoppers back into the retail space.
A version of this article first appeared in the August issue of ArtsNews, ArtsWestchester’s monthly publication. ArtsNewsis distributed throughout Westchester County. A digital copy is also available at artsw.org/artsnews.
About ArtsWestchester
Founded in 1965, ArtsWestchester is New York State’s largest private not-for-profit arts council. The leading funder and advocate for the arts in Westchester and Rockland Counties, ArtsWestchester works to create an equitable, inclusive, vibrant and sustainable community in which the arts are integral to and integrated into every facet of life. Building on its 60-year legacy, ArtsWestchester advances arts and culture by providing grants, bringing artists into schools and community centers, advocating for the arts, and building audiences through diverse marketing initiatives. ArtsWestchester enriches the lives of everyone in the community and operates a multi-use gallery and home for the arts at 31 Mamaroneck Ave. in White Plains, New York.
