STAMFORD, CT — The Heyman Enterprise last Thursday unveiled a new large‑scale mural by Spanish‑born American muralist Rafael Blanco at 18 Dock, marking a major milestone in the property's commitment to integrating public art into new development and enriching Stamford's South End.
The mural, which will be featured in the upcoming PBS documentary "WALLS," produced by Guerra Productions and led by Emmy Award–winning filmmaker Oscar Guerra, was revealed during a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local officials, community partners, residents, and members of the building's ownership team.
18 Dock opened in 2025 and is a 20‑story multifamily residential community in Stamford's South End featuring 395 rental homes, ground‑floor retail, structured parking, and resort‑style amenities.
"This mural is a celebration of Stamford's longstanding ambition, vibrancy, and evolving identity," They Heyman Enterprise CEO Larry Heyman said, according to a news release. "Our family has deep roots in this community, and investing in public art is one way we honor that history while contributing to the future of the South End. For this community to be the beneficiary of Rafael's tremendous talent is a real blessing."
The Heyman Enterprise is a family‑run real estate owner/developer and corporate investor.
Blanco spoke about the inspiration behind the mural and the collaborative process that brought it to life.
"My goal with this mural was to create a piece that feels alive, something that reflects the movement, identity, and humanity of this community," Blanco said in a news release. "Working in Stamford and collaborating with The Heyman Enterprise has been an incredible experience, and I'm grateful to see this artwork become part of the neighborhood's visual story."
Blanco also created the mural at the new Stamford Train Station garage.
"Rafael Blanco's mural is a beautiful reflection of the diversity, energy, and vibrancy that define Stamford, and I'm grateful to The Heyman Enterprise for investing in the South End and helping make art more accessible throughout our community," Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons said of the latest art piece.
Adam Popper, managing director and head of real estate for The Heyman Enterprise, noted that the mural represents, "more than a beautiful addition to the building, it reflects our belief that public art has the power to shape how people experience a neighborhood. At 18 Dock, we want residents and visitors to feel connected to something larger than themselves, and Rafael's work captures that spirit perfectly."
The upcoming PBS documentary "WALLS" follows Blanco as he brings color, identity, and hope to public spaces across the country.
Filmed in Stamford, the documentary captures the full creative process behind the 18 Dock mural and underscores the role of public art in fostering belonging and community pride.
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