Living Hoboken legend Maria Pepe is immortalized in a new mural celebrating Hoboken icons. Pepe, a trailblazer for girls in Little League who fought for her right to play in 1972 at age 12, is depicted in the mural alongside other prominent Hoboken women, including Depression-era photographer Dorothea Lange and African American nightclub fixture Dorothy McNeil.
The 150’ by 35’ mural is sponsored by Storage Deluxe and was painted along a wall of the CubeSmart Self Storage building (1312 Adams Street). The unveiling will take place Thursday, October 25 at 10 a.m.
“It is a blessing to be able to be a part of and to experience seeing a mural that reflects on Hoboken’s history and commitment to provide so many recreational opportunities to all children living here today," said Pepe, who will attend the unveiling. "I am so thankful for all the support from my coach Jimmy Farina, my parents and family. I hope it inspires all children to believe all things are possible in Hoboken.”
“This is an exciting project that will breathe new life into the area,” said Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla. “This mural is a great tribute to some of Hoboken’s favorite daughters who made tremendous impacts on their community and the country.”
“This mural is the result of a successful collaboration with the City that has been three years in the making,” said Reid Weppler, Vice President of Development with Storage Deluxe. “We're excited to open our new store in the neighborhood and be part of the community.”
The mural, created by Jersey City artist DISTORT, refers to his inspiration for the work, "In this mural, I wanted to honor Hoboken's history as a working-class and artistic city by representing the people and places that gave it it’s character.” The mural also features two dock workers, showcasing Hoboken’s industrial period.
Storage Deluxe worked closely with the City of Hoboken Division of Cultural Affairs and the City of Hoboken’s Mural Arts Committee to help commission this mural project. Members of the Committee include:
The mural is also sponsored by Golden Artist Colors, Inc, and Jerry's Artist Outlet in West Orange who donated the paint and other materials for the project.
“My wife Barbara and I love this city,” said Mark Golden, a founder of Golden Artist Colors, Inc. “It has provided us a wonderful opportunity to enjoy all the area has to offer. We are delighted our Company can participate in this amazing mural project.”
