The newly opened Bushwick pot shop which recently concealed the painting of Brooklyn Rapper Notorious B.I.G. restored it after community outcry and resolving the "miscommunication" with the New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM).
According to Pix11, the shop Emerald Green covered up the mural due to advertising regulations last week. However, the OCM reportedly changed its stance on the mural which it initially said violated advertising regulations.
Christina De Giovanni, the dispensary’s CEO, said he was relieved that the matter had been resolved, saying the forced cover-up was a "bitter pill to swallow."
"We love the mural, we love the neighborhood. We’re glad to clear up that miscommunication," said De Giovanni. The owners have since washed the anti-graffiti paint.
“We’re glad to move forward on this, and we’re glad to bring it back,” said De Giovanni.
Residents said they loved that their community was open to artistic work and that Biggie Smalls' mural was a part of Brooklyn's rich artistic tapestry.
“I know other people feel certain ways about it, but I think it’s just a great sense of culture and community,” one resident said.