Bianca Romero is a New York City-based contemporary artist, muralist, and creative director known for her bold, colorful mixed-media works that blend hand-cut street posters, collage, spray paint, and acrylic. She is a native New Yorker born and raised a block from Union Square Park.

A first-generation artist with Spanish and Korean roots, Romero’s layered compositions reflect the complexities of personal and collective identity. Her large-scale murals can be seen throughout New York City and beyond, with notable collaborations including public art initiatives and partnerships with brands and cultural institutions. With a signature style that bridges fine art and street art, Romero continues to redefine urban landscapes through vibrant, thought-provoking works that invite communities to engage with art in everyday spaces.

This summer, Romero will bring her artistic vision to Time Out Market Union Square (124 E. 14th Street) with the creation of a monumental 70-by-20-foot mural in partnership with Merrell, painted live on-site, transforming the market into an immersive canvas where visitors can experience the creative process firsthand as she brings her latest work to life.

Can you point to one event that triggered your interest in your career?

I’ve always loved art and have been into art. Both my parents are designers and my father owned a design agency, so even at a young age, I used to go there after school. After leaving full time jobs and being burnt out and unhappy, I took more seriously trying to be an artist/muralist as a career.

Bianca Romero

What about this career choice did you find most appealing?

I love creating art and the idea of creating public art that will live in communities and environments and become part of people’s daily life is very appealing to me. Art can really uplift and improve people’s moods and mental state. As a woman I also love that being a muralist means taking up space. Lots of space. It’s a form of feminism to me.

What steps did you take to begin your education or training?

I didn’t attend art school, I learned and practiced on my own. Loving art my whole life, with both my parents being designers it was very natural for me to be interested in art.

Along the way, were people encouraging or discouraging?

Some were encouraging, many more were discouraging. It’s a risk to leave a fulltime career to try to become an artist. It’s highly competitive and especially mural art/street art is extremely male dominated. You have to work so much harder as a woman to prove you deserve to take up space.

Did you ever doubt your decision and attempt a career change?

Many times. But also I would never choose anything else. I think when something is meant for you it will find you. I never thought I would end up being a mural artist. It wasn’t even really a career 10, 15 years ago.

When did your career reach a tipping point?

I landed a partnership with Maker’s Mark. It was a brand partnership where I created 11 murals all over the city with also a limited edition Makers Mark bottles with my art on it. At that point I felt like, okay, I can really do this.

Can you describe a challenge you had to overcome?

The biggest challenge, like any freelance/self employed creative, is trying to be consistent. Consistent in staying inspired, consistent in creating and practicing and evolving your craft, and consistency in getting booked.

What single skill has proven to be most useful?

Promoting and selling yourself. Communicating your point of view and ideas clearly.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

Of being a fulltime artist. Almost getting to the 10 year mark is a massive accomplishment to me. It’s extremely difficult and takes a ton of hard work, patience, discipline etc. I’m extremely grateful that I am doing this for a living.

Any advice for others entering your profession?

Develop your own distinct style and point of view. Don’t ever under value yourself, and don’t be scared to speak up for yourself and what you need to produce the best work you can.

Instagram: @biancadoesnyc
Time Out Market Union Square: @timeoutmarketunionsquare

Photos courtesy of Bianca Romero