Created with 11 other murals for the 2026 World Cup Activation Events, “Astoria Always” reflects Steinway Playground as an open asphalt gathering place where adults, families and young people come together to play sports and socialize. A grand piano references the Steinway name and Astoria itself, while a musical wave travels toward the Unisphere, connecting the neighborhood to the wider world. Soccer, volleyball and basketball share the mural with dancing, a ukulele player and other scenes of celebration. The wave incorporates colors inspired by the many national cultures represented throughout Astoria, while pigeons and bubbles add humor and playfulness to the composition. The mural responds to community requests for diversity, acceptance, connection, colorful imagery, sports and recognizable Queens landmarks, reinforcing Astoria as a place where people from around the world can find community.
