Mosaic honoring Vico C is unveiled in Puerta de Tierra

From left, mosaic artist Roberto Biaggi, San Juan Mayor Miguel Romero Lugo and urban music pioneer Vico C. The municipal initiative, the mayor said, combines the beautification of public spaces with the recognition of figures whose careers have significantly shaped Puerto Rico’s cultural identity.

Calle del Tren is renamed

after pioneering rapper

By THE STAR STAFF

San Juan Mayor Miguel Romero Lugo announced Thursday the unveiling of a mosaic honoring noted urban musical artist Luis Armando Lozada Cruz, Vico C, known as the Philosopher of Rap, as well as the official renaming of Calle del Tren (Train Street) to Calle Vico C in the Puerta de Tierra neighborhood of the island capital.

The municipal initiative, the mayor said, combines the beautification of public spaces with the recognition of figures whose careers have significantly shaped Puerto Rico’s cultural identity.

The work pays tribute to one of the pioneers of urban music, born in Brooklyn and raised in San Juan, whose career has transcended generations and profoundly impacted the musical, social and community spheres.

“Since the beginning of this administration, we have been committed to transforming public spaces into places that tell stories, inspire, and recognize those who have contributed to the country through their talent and commitment to our people,”

Romero Lugo said. “Honoring Vico C in Puerta de Tierra, where his story began, is an act of cultural justice and a recognition of his legacy.”

The initiative is part of an ongoing effort by the Municipality of San Juan to use urban art as a tool for social transformation, vandalism prevention, and strengthening a sense of community. As part of the project, more than 15 mosaic works have been developed in collaboration with artist Roberto Biaggi and Robi Design, integrating art as a permanent element in high-traffic public spaces.

“Walking down a street that now bears my name and seeing this mosaic in the place where I grew up is something that deeply honors me,” Vico C said. “I don’t see it as a recognition of a person, but of a story, a community, and a message that was born in San Juan and became a voice for many generations. I wholeheartedly thank Mayor Miguel Romero Lugo for this initiative.”

The artwork, titled “Vico C, This One Is For You,” is made of ceramic tiles on concrete, ensuring its durability and enjoyment by both residents and visitors. The mosaic represents three stages of the artist’s career: a more rebellious phase, a Christian phase, and a commercial phase, reflecting his personal and artistic evolution, his experiences, his achievements, and the depth of his message.