The 191st street subway tunnel mural by artist duo Jessie Unterhalter and Katey Truhn is part of NYC DOT’s Beautification Project. The tunnel AKA “Tunnel of Doom” is located in the Washington Heights Community between Broadway and St. Nicholas Avenue. It is one of the deepest tunnels in NYC and stretches over 900ft long, connecting the street with the 1 Train Subway Station. The options are a hike over the park, ride the elevator, or walk through the previously suspicious dark tunnel. Alongside Jessie and Katey, DOT commissioned 4 other artist to paint sections of the tunnel. Artists include: Andrea von Bujdoss “Queen Andrea”, Fernando Carlo, Jr. “Cope 2”, Nick Kuszyk, and Nelson Rivas “Cekis”. This video captures a behind the scenes look during the painting of this mural. I came by for a few hours each day to bring them snacks and shoot some photos/video. Despite a rain delay which washed away a whole day’s work and being stuck in a relatively dark tunnel, they managed to always keep a positive outlook. Once the tunnel re-opened, it attracted people from all over NYC to come for a visit. Everyone seems to be really receptive of the color on the walls and now its the “selfie” tunnel.
Can’t paint over this!
Conceptual Sketch
All done!
Mandatory Jump Photo
