EU National Institutes for Culture - EUNIC


New York

New York
Garden of Collective Futures Mural
Garden of Collective Futures Mural. Photo: Bruce Bybee.
Garden of Collective Futures Mural. Photo: Bruce Bybee.
Garden of Collective Futures Mural. Photo: Bruce Bybee.

The "Garden of Collective Futures" mural unites ten artists from Europe and the US in a celebration of international cultural cooperation and artistic exchange.

This vibrant artwork now brightens the Garden Wall at The Standard, East Village, along East 5th Street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenue, enhancing New York City's East Village.

Diverse Artistic Perspectives - A Dynamic Collaboration

Under the creative lead of Ukrainian-born artist Misha Tyutyunik, known for versatile mediums and community-driven public art, the project began with engaging workshops where artists brainstormed and designed together. This blend of European and US artistic perspectives into a unified cohesive design relied on effective communication facilitated by workshops at partner institutes across New York.

The mural features contributions from ten artists: Rob Anderson (Hungary), Riivo Kruuk (Estonia), David Leitner (Austria), Julius Ludavičius (Lithuania), Radu Pandele (Romania), Jan Deejoohcee Rosius (Belgium/Flanders), Rosa Sarholz (Germany), Asia Sztencel (Poland), Věrka Vybíralová (Czech Republic), and Misha Tyutyunik (Ukraine and the US). Each infused their unique cultural background, blending styles and influences into a stunning piece.

This mural project was an incredible showcase of how quickly a collaboration among diverse artists can transform a space beautifully. I was so impressed with the way everyone navigated the challenges of cohesion, aesthetic, and process, and I hope that our experience together serves as a leading template for how important it is for us to work together to create a more beautiful world.

Rob Anderson, participating artist representing Hungary

Public art, a vibrant part of the artistic landscape in Europe and the US, finds new expression in the "Garden of Collective Futures." With vibrant hues and profound themes, the artists express their visions for our collective future, emphasising community ideals and intercultural exchange. The mural enhances the East Village's aesthetic, transforming an overlooked space into a celebrated public art landmark.

Community Engagement and Unveiling

The mural unveiling on June 20th, 2024, at The Standard Hotel, East Village, brought together friends, family, artists and partners. Curious onlookers watched the artists at work, fostering community and excitement. The finished masterpiece is now open for all, inviting visitors to enjoy this vibrant symbol of collectivity.

Supported by Esteemed Partners

The "Garden of Collective Futures" was led by the Austrian Cultural Forum New York for EUNIC New York. Partners included the Liszt Institute (Hungarian Cultural Centre), Consulate General of Estonia in New York, Lithuanian Culture Institute, Romanian Cultural Institute in New York, Delegation of Flanders to the USA, Goethe-Institut New York, Polish Cultural Institute New York, Ukrainian Institute of America, and Czech Center New York.

We all really approached this project as a team rather than as ten separate artists. I think this speaks to what we are trying to say with this mural – we must think of our future collectively.

Misha Tyutyunik, lead artist representing Ukraine/the US

Garden of Collective Futures stands as a vibrant testament to the unifying power of art, inviting locals and visitors to experience the joyous celebration of international artistic collaboration.



  • Visual arts
  • Public art
  • Public space
  • Workshop

Co-funded by the European Union Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.