New Mural to be Unveiled at The Connection

(Niagara Falls, NY) – The Niagara Falls National Heritage Area is excited to unveil a new mural at The Connection on Saturday, October 7th. This mural, made possible through the funding from New York Downtown Revitalization Initiative, was completed by renowned Western New York artist Chuck Tingley, and is located at 1700 Main Street in Niagara Falls. The Connection serves as a safe space for teenagers in the city, and fosters an environment for socializing, building skills, and partaking in activities. 

“I’m honored that The Connection was chosen for this project,” stated Shayla Benson, Senior Manager of Outreach & Education at Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York, which oversees The Connection program. “The mural embodies every youth in Niagara Falls and beyond. Chuck Tingley is a genius, and I am thrilled that The Connection gets to view and celebrate this masterpiece every day.”

Saladin Allah, Public Projects Coordinator for the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area and Director of Community Engagement at the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center, voiced that “The absence of public art in our city has been our evidence of opportunity, and we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of a renaissance that is boldly shaping our city’s arts and cultural heritage ecosystem.”

"I'm honored to be included in the Niagara Falls public art movement, specifically here at The Connection building and what they represent,” shared mural artist Chuck Tingley. “[It is] a place for the youth that's open daily for them to congregate, play games, and to learn and grow. My hope is that my mural encapsulates that same spirit - as it starts with the youth.”

The mural unveiling is open to the public, and will start at 11 AM. Light refreshments will be available. Now’s the Time is part of Niagara Falls National Heritage Area’s Heritage Arts Initiative, NF Murals, and is funded through a grant from New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative. 

For more information about this project, as well as other Niagara Falls National Heritage Area initiatives, please visit discoverniagara.org. You can find the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area on Facebook and Instagram at @FindYourNiagara.

About Niagara Falls National Heritage Area and Public Art

The Niagara Falls National Heritage Area is one of 62 National Heritage Areas in the United States. Designated by the United States Congress in 2008, its mission is to preserve, protect and promote the historic, natural and cultural resources of the area stretching from Niagara Falls to Old Fort Niagara in Youngstown, New York. The Niagara Falls National Heritage Area facilitates partnerships between artists, public and private organizations, and community members and stakeholders to envision and create public art, impacting the cultural landscape with pieces that reflect and honor the history and legacy of Niagara Falls. Learn more at discoverniagara.org.

About The Connection

The Connection, a program of Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York, was developed in partnership and community with Niagara Falls youth and families. It is open year-round to individuals aged 11-18. Learn more at ppmoxie.org/the-connection.

About Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York

Parenthood Planned of Central and Western New York protects and provides health care and education that empowers individuals and families. With respect. Without judgment. No matter what. We envision a community where everyone has autonomy over their bodies and choices as a basic human right. We welcome everyone to enter safely through our doors and leave emotionally and physically healthier.