A giant crochet mural put up last week in East Harlem has been stolen, Friends of the East River Esplanade said in a statement.

Created by local artist Carmen Paulino, the mural decorated a fence near 100th Street and the East River, and was scheduled to stay up through July 15, 2023.

The mural, which opened to the public last Saturday, showcased “the rich cultural heritage and history of the East Harlem neighborhoods, including the El Barrio Fisherman, musical greats who hail from the neighborhood like pianist Eddie Palmieri, dancers and more,” East Harlem Tutorial Program said in a statement.

As part of the project, some kids were taught how to crochet, and some of the work was done by Carmen’s family and contacts in Puerto Rico and sent to the city, according to Friends of the East River Esplanade.

“This new mural along the East River Esplanade will highlight our city’s diversity and vibrancy, as well as its natural beauty and local luminaries,” city Parks Department Commissioner Sue Donoghue said in a statement prior to the mural being stolen. “With its waterfront views, the East River Esplanade is a great place to jog, bike, or just take a stroll and this new public art will add even more beauty to this picturesque park.”