British artist Cecily Brown has gained recognition in the contemporary art scene for her dynamic paintings, often showcased in prestigious institutions. In a recent development, her latest work is featured not in a gallery, but on the walls of Chez Nous, a restaurant located in the Marlton Hotel in Greenwich Village. The mural, titled Ballad of the Dish and the Spoon (2025), exemplifies her distinctive style and invites diners into a realm of vibrant colors and intricate forms.
The facts
Recent exhibitions of artist Brown included a showcase at the Barnes Foundation and a retrospective at the Dallas Museum of Art. However, her latest work at Chez Nous, a restaurant with a rich history, signifies a shift from her traditional exhibition spaces. The mural, a vibrant and dynamic composition, is located in a partially enclosed back alley, drawing the attention of passersby with its swirling flesh tones and abundant imagery.
The consequences
This mural not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of Chez Nous but also reflects the evolving landscape of public art in New York. The restaurant, known for its creative ambiance, now serves as a canvas for artistic expression, inviting patrons and visitors to engage with art in an everyday setting. Brown’s work contributes to a growing trend of integrating art within urban environments, fostering a deeper connection between the community and creative endeavors.
Historical context
The site of this mural has a rich history. It was once a flophouse where renowned writer Jack Kerouac lived, and is located near Jimi Hendrix’s famous studio. The work of artist Brown, typically featured in upscale galleries, now enhances a space that reflects New York’s vibrant culture. This city has long embraced the combination of art and dining. Brown draws inspiration from the tradition of restaurant murals, which elevate the dining experience without overshadowing it, similar to the esteemed works found in Bemelmans Bar and the King Cole Bar.
The facts
During a recent visit, artist Brown expressed enthusiasm for her new mural project. She reflected on her admiration for murals that have adorned restaurants across New York. Brown aims to create a piece that feels inherently part of the space, evolving with its environment rather than being limited to a gallery setting.
What happened
“I want to avoid the pressure of price tags and the transactional nature of art,” Brown stated. She emphasized the sense of freedom she experiences while painting directly on the wall. This approach allows her to connect with the space and its audience more authentically.
The mural’s artistic merits
Here are the facts: Brown’s artistic approach emphasizes the theme of excess, exploring concepts ranging from culinary abundance to sensuality. Her previous work, Lobsters, Oysters, Cherries, and Pearls, vividly illustrates this theme with depictions of lavish feasts and indulgent experiences. At Chez Nous, her mural serves as a dynamic backdrop for diners, inviting communal engagement with art, rather than isolating it within a traditional gallery setting.
A community-driven project
The news broke as Brown collaborated with restaurant owners David Kuhn and Kevin Thompson to revitalize the space. This project originated from a series of dinner parties that brought together creative minds from various fields, highlighting the vibrant artistic community in New York. Their shared vision transformed the restaurant into a living canvas, merging culinary and visual arts.
Creating a mural in a dynamic environment presents challenges, but artist Brown describes the experience as liberating. According to Brown, “The traditional art market can feel restrictive. By painting directly on the wall, I am free from those constraints. This mural is not just for sale; it’s a part of this space.” Her goal is to produce a work that reflects her artistic identity while embracing the lively atmosphere of the restaurant, evident in every brushstroke.
The facts
The mural at Chez Nous is not a conventional painting; it is designed to evolve over time. Brown plans to make small adjustments and incorporate spontaneous touches using her lipstick as needed. This dynamic approach reflects the restaurant’s ever-changing nature, where guests come and go, fostering a vibrant community centered around food and art.
The consequences
This unique artistic vision enhances the dining experience, blending visual art with the restaurant’s lively ambiance. The mural invites patrons to engage with the artwork, encouraging a dialogue between the food, the space, and the artist’s evolving expression.
Brown’s latest mural at Chez Nous exemplifies her commitment to artistic innovation. The mural invites diners to experience a harmonious blend of art and culinary excellence, creating a profound connection between the two disciplines.
