Presentation of portrait to New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

According to the artist, she created the portrait of Mayor Bloomberg to communicate the positive change he has brought to the lives of New Yorkers. She said she incorporated the idea of the illuminated seal of New York City, which has many meanings. Historically, she said, it is a symbol of New York’s foundation by the settlers and Indians. A contemporary interpretation is that Mayor Bloomberg is continuing in the improvement of New York City, so it will be better prepared for the future. The light from the seal shines on the stars in the United States flag, representing the impact New York has on the entire nation, Makarska-Cermak explained.

Mayor Bloomberg, his portrait,Leokadia, and her son George. (Photo by Kristen Artz, Mayor’s Photographer)