New York, New York Wyland Whaling Wall 40

History of the New York, New York Wyland Whaling Wall 40

-Inner City Whales

Selecting and gaining approval to paint a Whaling Wall in New York City presented an entirely new set of challenges that could only be found in the Big Apple. Wyland had initially selected the “perfect” wall at the Jacob Javits Convention Center, but the site fell through when the World Trade Center was suddenly bombed by terrorists. The Port Authority of New York, whose vent tower was located at the convention center, then decided the Whaling Wall might become a target for the terrorists.

However, they helped the artist find another wall at the Port Authority Bus Terminal on the 41st Street underpass. “On the one hand, I appreciated it; on the other, it was one of the most challenging locations in the city,” Wyland says. “Crime, drugs, winos, prostitution—it was horrible. The real challenge was going to be how I could add something positive to such a dreary environment.”

The artist quickly set to work, painting humpback whales swimming along the low 450-foot-long tunnel between the two bus terminals. The combination of the unusual location and the  unusual subject matter caught the attention of morning television shows, including Today Show and Good Morning America, who covered the daily work at the Bus Terminal. After five days of painting, the mural was dedicated by Jim Fowler of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom.

Did you know?

• New York City’s connection to the Atlantic via the Hudson River has played a major role in the health of marine life off short. New York Harbor, once notoriously polluted, has seen an improvement in its water quality after decades of abuse thanks to environmental legislation like the Clean Water Act and the work and dedication of thousands.
• Wyland’s mural was a clarion call to the millions who visited New York that it was not only possible, but essential for individuals to play their part in protecting the oceans by reducing pollution, supporting marine conservation, or simply being aware of their impact on the environment.

Whaling wall 40

Port Authority Bus Terminal, 41 Street Underpass, New York, New York
460 Feet Long x 22 Feet High
Dedicated July 5, 1993
By Jim Fowler, Mutual of Omaha’s “Wild Kingdom”

OUR news

Latest from Blog

Check out our latest and newest blogs for detailed articles on Wyland’s achievements, volunteer opportunities, upcoming events, and giveaways. Shop Wyland, and all proceeds from your purchases directly support our efforts to bring people together for clean water and healthy oceans.