Harrison, NJ (March 3, 2022) - The New York Red Bulls, along with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and Newark Arts, today unveiled a mural that will be located at Horizon Gate on the concourse level of Red Bull Arena. On hand for the unveiling were Marc de Grandpré, Joe Stetson and Connor Lade from the New York Red Bulls; Ulises Diaz and Jonathan Pearson from Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey; Marcy Depina and Sindy Sanchez of Newark Arts; and artist Elijah Minton.
The mural, painted by Essex County-based artist Elijah Minton, was designed to represent the Red Bulls loyal supporters, fans, culture, energy and passion for the game of soccer from our neighborhoods to the walls of Red Bull Arena. The goals of the mural reflect the attitudes and essence that connect and celebrate the key surrounding communities. The mural will proudly be on display and serve as one of the first touch points for fan’s match day experience.
Fans will have the opportunity to get a first look at the mural on Sunday, March 13, when the Red Bulls host Minnesota United FC at 7:00 p.m. at Red Bull Arena.
"We are honored to unveil this beautiful mural with our partners Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and Newark Arts," said Marc de Grandpré, General Manager, New York Red Bulls. "The artistic vision and creativity of Elijah Minton properly reflects the passionate culture of soccer that lives within our local communities."
Last year, the club announced a multi-year community partnership extension with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey continuing their exclusive designation as the club’s Official Health Insurance Partner. The partnership was originally formed in 2014.
“Horizon is New Jersey’s hometown health partner, so we’re proud to help shine a spotlight on work of local artists like Elijah Minton who are bringing the culture and character of New Jersey’s neighborhoods to life through their art,” noted Ulises Diaz, Senior Vice President, Government and Community Affairs for Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. “The new mural is a vibrant portrayal of the energy and excitement on full display at every Red Bulls home game and throughout the many neighborhoods of Newark.”
"Newark Arts is honored to partner with the New York Red Bulls and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey to bring the arts to the fans through our ArtSource program," said Marcy Depina, Board President, Newark Arts Council. "This project exemplifies our mission to power the arts and put a spotlight on the talents of our local creatives. The brilliant work of Elijah Minton captures the spirit of the community, passion for the sport of soccer, and the power of collaboration."
ABOUT NEWARK ARTS
Newark Arts’ mission is to power the arts to transform lives. Established in 1981 as the Newark Arts Council, the organization’s vision is to become a nationally recognized catalyst for the collaborative power of the arts in the City of Newark and urban America. Representing hundreds of artists and more than 80 arts organizations, Newark Arts is a strategic partner on “creative placemaking” that spurs economic opportunities in the city. Through Newark ArtSource, Newark Arts brokers relationships, connecting local artists and their work to major development projects throughout the City. With some $4 billion in development in the city, Newark Arts serves as an intermediary for developers that are building new buildings or revitalizing old structures and want their spaces to reflect local culture. For more information, visit www.newarkarts.org.
