This month, more New Yorkers return to office buildings and workplaces in Midtown Manhattan as NYC hits Phase 4 of its reopening plan. Visitors, tenants and teams who return to the office at ElevatedNY will be welcomed by a beautiful celebration honoring frontline workers, the everyday heroes who kept the city running even while others were sheltering in place observing NY PAUSE.

Commissioned by the building owner, Edison Properties, the 248” wide by 144” tall mural was created by Brooklyn-based artist, Lousia Cannell. Cannell’s work focuses on diversity, women’s rights, and social causes. While working on this project for The Hippodrome lobby, Cannell said she drew from the strength and resilience of New Yorkers, particularly in honoring frontline workers:

“I saw people who make up New York in every aspect transform into everyday heroes. They – doctors, nurses, mail people, grocers, subway operators, cleaners, cooks, and so many more – kept our city up and running at great threat to their own lives. I hope this installation sheds light on their hard work and courage and serves as a special thank you.”

Each individual’s return to the office is likely to evoke a variety of emotional responses from as they head back to work. Visitors and tenants to ElevatedNY will be greeted by the hope and courage of these workers who helped to keep our city running, and the gratitude they feel for them to carry along with them as they “return to normalcy” and NYC begins to heal.