After many contributions from social media activists, protestors, and New Yorkers, the Notorious B.I.G. mural will not be destroyed and is here to stay in the Big Apple. A week ago, it was said that landlord, Samuel Berkowitz was set out to destroy Brooklyn’s most famous mural. Brooklyn residents were outraged and executed a plan of action against the landlord’s wishes.
According to Berkowitz, his request for the mural’s removal was due to a large number of following it brought upon the neighborhood for the past two years of the painting’s existence. The mural’s popularity drew a lot of people in and the landlord felt he had the right to request the removal. When the news of a possible removal got out, Brooklyn’s Nia Raquelle began a petition that fought for the continuance existence of the mural. In such a small amount of time, the petition gained over 3,500 signatures in support of keeping Biggie’s image alive in New York.
In combination with social media and the ongoing petition, Berkowitz received backlash and decided to not continue on with the removal of Notorious B.I.G’s mural. Spread Art NYC was the first art organization to report the mural was in danger and was the also there to thank everyone for its support in keeping the mural alive.
Even 20 years after Notorious B.I.G’s death, he still shows the impact and power of the legacy he has left behind.
