Miami’s Willy Chirino Mural on Calle Ocho
Painted By Miss Lushy
In late October 2022, the City of Miami unveiled a monumental mural honoring Willy Chirino on the iconic Calle Ocho, celebrating his 50 years of artistic career and lasting impact on Cuban and Latin music.
Sponsored by Leon Medical Centers and celebrated by the City of Miami, the mural was created by Miami-raised artist Alexandra Seda, widely known as Miss Lushy Art, who celebrates Latin music culture through her art. The massive work measures approximately 60 feet high by 55 feet wide, making it one of the most prominent cultural tributes in Little Havana.
The artwork reproduces a powerful photographic portrait of the GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY® winner Willy Chirino, set against a dramatic sky with clouds and a large Cuban flag in the background symbolizing exile, identity, resilience, and pride. Positioned in the heart of Miami’s Cuban community, the mural stands as both a visual landmark and a cultural statement celebrating Willy Chirino’s decades-long career.
Ahead of the unveiling, Willy Chirino publicly praised Miss Lushy’s dedication, highlighting her tireless effort painting from a lift for more than a month while battling rain and harsh weather conditions. He expressed deep gratitude for her commitment and artistry, acknowledging the physical and emotional demands behind the project.
Reflecting on the tribute, Willy Chirino shared that receiving such recognition in Miami, his longtime home, was especially meaningful, noting the city’s unwavering support and affection throughout his career. Since arriving in the United States as a teenager, he has become one of the most influential voices of the Cuban exile community, with iconic songs such as “Nuestro Día Ya Viene Llegando” and “La Jinetera.”
For Miss Lushy, the mural carried profound personal significance. Growing up in Miami with strong Latin roots, she described having childhood memories tied to Chirino’s music and called it an honor to contribute to such a historic celebration. She identified the unpredictable weather as the greatest challenge but emphasized that perseverance allowed her to complete the mural for both the artist and the community.
The unveiling marked the beginning of a year-long celebration of Willy Chirino’s legacy, with tributes that included a gala concert at the James L. Knight Center and further recognitions beyond Florida celebrating his 50 year artistic career.
Sponsored by Leon Medical Centers and supported by city officials like Joe Carollo, the Calle Ocho mural is more than a portrait, it is a permanent symbol of cultural preservation, honoring an artist whose music has given voice to generations and reinforcing Miami’s role as a global capital of Latin culture.
Miss Lushy’s Interview with Willy Chirino and Diario de las Americas
“Este mural representa el momento cumbre de mi carrera.”
- Willy Chirino speaking about the mural on Diario de las Americas
“This mural meant a great deal to me because of my Latin roots. I was born and raised in Miami, and I grew up listening to Willy Chirino’s music. Being part of the celebration of his 50 years of artistic legacy is an incredible honor.”
- Alexandra Seda, known as the artist Miss Lushy
