Going Analog
Before joining Strong Studio, I was an educator and muralist for almost ten years. Although my teaching experience is often utilized in the Studio, I never expected to paint a mural again any time soon! However, when Bantam Bagels asked us to resolve a blank wall in their recently renovated flagship store, we jumped at the opportunity to execute our design as a mural.
A hand-painted mural was the perfect solution for Bantam’s space. Painting on the original Greenwich Village brick gave the wall an authentic and personal touch that no banner or vinyl could’ve achieved. I was so excited to bring my experience to the team and to the process, and I am so proud of what we made together.
PREPARATION MAKES PERFECT
Our process was very similar to other environmental projects — we measured, sketched, and designed mock ups. Once the design was approved, instead of sending it off to a printer, we matched paint swatches, purchased supplies, and printed our illustrations in a variety of sizes. This allowed us to confirm placement, angles, and sizing before using graphite paper to transfer our designs to the textured brick wall. “Prep” is our middle name.
TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK
The Bantam Bagels mural was a colossal group effort. A rotation of designers climbed up and down ladders for two full days, perfectly positioning and transferring each illustration onto the wall, and then painting over 30 feet of authentic, rustic, NYC brick. Luckily, Bleecker Street is packed with delicious and iconic New York City staples — like Murray’s Cheese, Joe’s Pizza, and of course Bantam Bagels — which kept our bellies full and our spirits high!
We also have to thank Mural Painter Inc for creating the highly detailed, hand painted logo that is the centerpiece of the mural and brings an immense amount of energy to the shop. You may recognize their founder, Emily Strauss, who went on Shark Tank recently to clinch a deal with Barbara Corcoran!
GET THE FULL EXPERIENCE
We hope you stop by the Bantam Bagels shop for the full experience — complete with some toasty bantams! They’re even a featured stop on the Greenwich Village Food Tour!
Until then, please take a look at our work for Bantam Bagels over the past five years. And if you’re missing that taste of New York, pick up some Bantams Bagels at your local grocery store, or ship directly from bantambagels.com.
LIKE WHAT YOU SEE?
If you are interested in adding a personal, one-of-a-kind touch to your store or business, feel free to reach out!
As a one-stop shop, Strong Studio is able to provide a versatile service line that will help refresh your brand in no time. From logos to menus to packaging, we’re ready for whatever life throws your way.