Richard Haas’ famous mural on a building in Soho was finally restored last year after it had been left in disarray. Painted in 1975, the five-story NYC mural replicates the 19th-century cast-iron facade of 112 Prince Street. Over time, weather and graffiti had almost erased the artwork. Originally commissioned by Doris Freedman of City Walls, the mural was completed in 1975. It includes two real windows and a painted cat. The New York Times praised it as a “trompe l’oeil triumph” in 1976. This mural marks Soho’s artistic history and was Haas’s first outdoor mural.
After a New York Times article highlighted the mural’s decay, Haas organised a fundraising campaign to restore the great artwork. The restoration used the same water-based paint as the original, covering 55 faux windows. Two new additions, a dog and a cat from the building, were included. The project wrapped up in December 2023, restoring the mural to its former glory.
Inspired by this incredible artwork and its story? Mix the beautiful work of mural art with the history of your home city. Whether you’re a business owner looking to liven up your storefront, a community organiser wanting to restore an old building or mural, or simply an individual with a story to tell, commission an artist to paint a mural! Book An Artist connects art-lovers and business owners with talented artists who specialise in an array of styles, techniques and abilities.
Looking to hire artists in NYC? We’ve got you covered. Next time you’re strolling through Soho, be sure to check out the recently restored Richard Haas painting and let your imagination run wild – perhaps the next great NYC mural could be yours! Remember, whether you’re seeking the best graffiti in New York, the most famous paintings of NYC, or unique art things to do in NYC, the city’s art scene offers endless inspiration. And if you’re ready to contribute to that vibrant tapestry, Book An Artist is here to help you hire the best New York paint artists to make your artistic vision a reality!