Bronx artist unknowingly creates nation’s tallest mural

Néstor Omar García, 48, known as “Angurria,” led the project alongside Johann “Dovente” Baez and Mario “Son Coro” Resende, dedicating 22 days to the 307-foot-high mural. They worked extended shifts, often 11 or 12 hours a day, to depict a vibrant representation of Bronx life.

“At first, I just knew it was a big wall,” García explained through his wife, Venus, who translated. “Then they told me it was the biggest in The Bronx. After that, it was the biggest in New York City. And finally, we found out it was the biggest in the United States.”

The mural, titled “Un MAR de Gente / From Every Shore,” adorns the NYCHA Morrisania Air Rights development at 3145 Park Ave. in Melrose. Commissioned by ArtBridge, the artwork reflects input from community members gathered during six meetings.

The mural is divided into three sections. The top portrays a grandmother and granddaughter, symbolizing intergenerational support. The middle depicts a multicultural block party, celebrating community unity. The bottom shows children playing near a fire hydrant, representing a sense of childhood innocence.

“When we were kids, we didn’t look at where another person came from or what color they were,” García said. “We just saw a friend in everyone.”

The project faced numerous challenges, including a five-month process to obtain the necessary permits. Transporting materials and the artists themselves to the high scaffolding was also difficult, taking up to 25 minutes per trip.

The artists used approximately 700 spray-paint cans, numerous gallons of acrylic paint, and 30 gallons of sealant. García, who resides in Santo Domingo, expressed gratitude for the support from residents, who frequently provided food, drinks, and words of appreciation.

“People would come up and say, ‘Thank you for making us feel like we matter,’” he recalled.

Upon completion, García admitted to feeling a sense of relief. “I was relieved,” he said. “I didn’t have to go up there anymore.”