A mural honoring historical and contemporary figures in the field of medicine, known as “Medical Research Through the Ages,” has been displayed in the lobby of Pfizer’s original New York City headquarters for over 60 years. However, due to the building’s conversion into residential apartments, the mural is facing the possibility of being dismantled if a new location is not found within the next few weeks.
The massive metal and tile mosaic by Greek American artist Nikos Bel-Jon measures 40 feet wide and 18 feet high and has been a prominent feature in Pfizer’s midtown Manhattan office since the 1960s. Efforts are underway by art conservationists and the artist’s daughters to secure a new home for the artwork, which could cost tens of thousands of dollars to move and reinstall.
Art historian and urban planner Andrew Cronson is among those spearheading the search for a new location for the mural, envisioning it as part of an educational institution or public art program in New York City. The late artist, Nikos Bel-Jon, left behind several large brushed-metal works, many of which have been lost or destroyed over the years.
Pfizer, which has moved its headquarters to a different location, determined that the funds required to relocate the mural would be better allocated to patient-related priorities. The building’s developer, Metro Loft, also does not intend to retain the artwork and has set a deadline for its removal.
Despite some interest from universities and cultural organizations, the mural may need to be disassembled into metal and mosaic sections and placed in storage if a new home is not found promptly. The cost of removal alone is estimated to range from $20,000 to $50,000.
The mural’s historical value, along with its unique depiction of laboratory equipment and scientific symbols, has drawn attention to the importance of preserving such works of art. Bel-Jon Calkins, the artist’s daughter, is working diligently to ensure that her father’s legacy is not lost to history, highlighting the need to safeguard these corporate-commissioned artworks for future generations to appreciate.
