Do you remember Alexander’s? This department store chain, with a local Bergen County, New Jersey location at the intersection of Routes 4 and 17 in Paramus, left a lasting imprint in the memories of those who visited from 1962 until the store bid farewell in 1992. The renowned 200-by-50-foot mural that adorned the store’s façade became an unmistakable landmark, commanding attention at one of the busiest intersections in the nation.
Well, we have good news for those who are old enough to remember this iconic mural. Valley Health System is currently displaying panels from Polish-born artist Stefan Knapp’s mural entitled “The World” on the grounds of the new Valley Hospital in Paramus, New Jersey.
The Knapp Mural: A Map of the World on the Exterior of Alexander’s
“A healing environment provided to patients and their families plays a crucial role in recovery. This environment includes various elements such as amenities, lighting, room temperature, sound, and art,” said Audrey Meyers, President and CEO of Valley Health System. “Whether our patients are appreciating the beauty of the panels from their room or a family member is walking past the panels in the gardens, we believe the beauty of the art will aid in the healing process for our patients and their families.”
Valley Health System acquired the panels in 2021, an acquisition spearheaded by Robin Goldfischer, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, for Valley Health System.
Working with conservators from Aegis Restauro, LLC, the conservation of the Stefan Knapp panels included meticulously cleaning each panel of art and reinforcing their metal frames. The two-year project was completed this year.
On Display at Valley Hospital in Paramus
Twenty-four of the panels are now proudly displayed in the gardens at The Valley Hospital in Paramus. When the new hospital opens in April of 2024, visitors will be able to stroll along walking paths and admire the beauty of this artwork up close. Additionally, a display of the panels that feature Knapp’s signature is located inside the hospital near the hospital’s conference center, steps from the front entrance.
“The Knapp panels long served as a landmark in the Borough of Paramus. We are proud to have returned the panels to our community where they will remain for generations to come,” said Goldfischer.
Forty-eight of the panels will be displayed in different Valley Health System locations, including the new hospital, a medical arts building located at 140 East Ridgewood Avenue, in Paramus, and the Robert and Audrey Luckow Pavilion, which houses Valley-Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Care and a same-day surgery center.
The Valley Hospital in Paramus will open its doors on Sunday, April 14, 2024. For more information about the progress of The Valley Hospital in Paramus, visit ValleyHealth.com/NewHospital.
More Bergen County History
If you’re interested in learning more about Bergen County historic and/or iconic landmarks from years gone by, visit the Bergen County Historical Society website at bergencountyhistory.org or the Vintage Bergen County Facebook community.
Read more about Valley Health System on mybergen.com.
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