Mayor Adams Unveils Collaborative Portraits by Acclaimed Artist Roy Nachum in City Hall Rotunda

April 3, 2023

Video available at: https://youtu.be/k2ppviKzCtk

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today unveiled several unique collaborative portraits by artist Roy Nachum in the City Hall Rotunda. These extraordinary works of art feature low vision individuals, who collaborated with Nachum by adding the final touches to their own portraits. Today’s unveiling marks the third installation of new artwork displayed in City Hall in recent months, following the display of photos from Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre during Black History Month and artist Elena del Rivero’s artwork, “Home Address,” in honor of International Women’s Day. 

“As the mayor of arts and culture, I am proud to bring diverse art to City Hall," said Mayor Adams. “By showcasing Roy Nachum’s remarkable portraits in City Hall, we hope to continue to celebrate the talents and experiences of New Yorkers, and foster a spirit of unity and inclusion in our city. Roy’s installation, “Portraits,” showcases the incredible collaboration between him and some of our inspiring brothers and sisters who are low vision is a testament to the power of art to transcend boundaries and bring people together.”

“When we bring art into our city's public places, we create space for inspiration, exploration, and new connections" said New York City Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner Laurie Cumbo. "We're so excited for the remarkable artwork of Roy Nachum, along with his amazing collaborators, to be installed in City Hall, the civic heart of New York, and we look forward to bringing even more local artists’ work to public buildings around the city.“

“Art made by and for individuals with disabilities illuminates a unique perspective and invaluable creativity that enriches our world with inclusion and meaningful self-expression,” said Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities Commissioner Christina Curry. “Roy Nachum’s ‘Portrait’ is a celebration of artistic collaboration and breaks down barriers, proving again that art has the power to unite us all.”

“I worked on each portrait for over a year, capturing every detail of their faces, but it was not until after they touched the canvas itself that the paintings were given their soul,” said Artist Roy Nachum. “These works represent humility. It is a great honor to exhibit them in City Hall and be part of a historic event advocating for cultural diversity in New York City.”

These three installments are a part of the new citywide initiative to exhibit work by local artists and arts groups in city buildings across the five boroughs. Roy Nachum, an Israeli-born artist based in New York, is known for his creative collaborations with low vision individuals, incorporating braille and other tactile elements into his artwork. Nachum has received widespread acclaim for his inclusive approach to art, which challenges traditional notions of sight and perception. Among his accomplishments is a Grammy nomination for his work on Rihanna's 2017 album cover, “Anti.” This exhibition will showcase the power of art to bring people together and foster understanding and appreciation for the diverse experiences of all New Yorkers.

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