HYM unveils mural at Amaya by prominent international artist

Muralist Julien Colombier integrates themes of climate resiliency and ecological preservation into his U.S. debut at Suffolk Downs

 On July 22, 2024, The HYM Investment Group, LLC (HYM) and National Real Estate Advisors, LLC (National), unveiled a 2,700-square-foot mural by internationally acclaimed French artist Julien Colombier at Amaya, the first residential building to deliver at Suffolk Downs. The piece was commissioned in partnership with Justkids, an award-winning art consulting firm that specializes in propelling place-making and public art. Colombier drew inspiration for the mural from the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of the Suffolk Downs neighborhood, including Belle Isle Marsh and Revere Beach. The mural, Colombier’s first in the United States, integrates themes of climate resiliency and ecological preservation, aligning with HYM’s commitment to prioritizing sustainable design at Suffolk Downs. Colombier’s mural will enhance the vibrant and enriching living experience enjoyed by residents of Amaya and serve as an extension of nearby arts and cultural spaces, including The Stage at Suffolk Downs.

Colombier’s mural at Amaya is located on the ground floor facade of the building, lining the new Beachmont Plaza and turning the corner onto a brand-new Salt Street – well-positioned to welcome visitors to Beachmont Square and residents to their new home at Amaya. The artwork prominently features bright colors and local florals, such as cardinal flowers, bird’s foot, coral honeysuckle, great blue lobelia and wild indigo, which are native to Massachusetts. The mural’s blue background was inspired by the many water sources located near the Suffolk Downs site as well as the creative measures that HYM has implemented to mitigate the effects of climate change and rising sea levels. In planning the Suffolk Downs development, HYM commissioned a highly advanced hydraulic model, which informed the inclusion of the site’s floodable parks and purposeful infrastructure, designed to embrace many inevitable impacts of climate change.

“The addition of Julien Colombier’s mural at Amaya further solidifies Suffolk Downs as an accessible, sustainable, and dynamic neighborhood that prioritizes art and creativity,” said HYM Managing Partner/CEO Thomas N. O’Brien. “We are honored that Julien chose to make his United States debut with us in Revere, and we look forward to seeing residents and visitors enjoy Julien’s mural for years to come.”

“We are proud to see our vision come to life at the Amaya project, enhancing the Suffolk Downs community with this expansive public art installation,” said National President/CEO Jeffrey Kanne. “We look forward to the positive impact this mural will have on visitors and residents of Amaya.”

“The inspiration for this work was the rich variety of local flowers and how to express them artistically, while harmoniously adapting to the architecture as the canvas for this giant painting. For this project I wanted to consider viewers from various distances, and finding the right scale was essential to create something vibrant and groovy, yet still poetic.” said Colombier.

  “We’re thrilled to collaborate with HYM, a visionary team that truly understands the profound value of art and culture in creating memorable spaces,” said Justkids Founder/Director Charlotte Duoit. “Julien’s design perfectly captures the essence of the surrounding area, infusing it with a local flair that invites people to connect, experience and come back!”

First move-ins at Amaya, which was developed in partnership by National and HYM, began in June, with leasing for the property managed by Bozzuto. Amaya features over 34,000 square feet of state-of-the-art amenities and 24,000 square feet of dynamic ground-level retail offerings. Situated in Beachmont Square, residents will be connected to a lively community hub of neighborhood retail, open space and civic spaces within the vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood serving as a gateway to all of Suffolk Downs. Residents can also enjoy the nearby access to The Track at Suffolk Downs, including The Dog Park, community events and concerts hosted at The Stage at Suffolk Downs. Amaya also offers quick, easy connections to Downtown Boston and major transit hubs.

“We’re thrilled to have Julien Colombier’s new mural adding more color and excitement at Amaya,” said Amaya General Manager Jennifer Soto. “The artwork further enhances our community of creativity and connection. It is a welcome addition to the property and serves as a great representation of all that Amaya has to offer.”