Community celebrates the official unveiling of the 54-foot Giannis Antetokounmpo mural

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The city of Milwaukee celebrated double on Friday, May 13, for Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals and the artist Mauricio Ramirez. On Friday, the city officially revealed the finished 54-foot mural of Giannis Antetokounmpo.

"I try to bring the community together with my artwork and it's just something I've always wanted to do especially, specializing in public art. I just really wanted to bring everyone together with iconic images and today we're completing the Giannis mural," said artist Mauricio Ramirez.

City leaders like Mayor Cavalier Johnson joined the block party and said the mural represents much more than just Milwaukee's legendary basketball player.

"The mural on this wall is a new reminder of who we are as a city and as a nation. The American dream is alive and well right here in Milwaukee and cities like it across the country. A place where hard work, grit and determination are recognized, and not just recognized but also rewarded. Giannis talked about it last time -- he did it the hard way," said Mayor Cavalier Johnson.

A Bucks fan fanatic, Marta Medina, who is also the cousin of the artist, said the mural is an emblem of hope for the immigrant community.

"This mural is actually very significant to Milwaukee because Giannis is an immigrant to our country, so it's especially important for all the immigrants or minorities in Wisconsin and Milwaukee and in this country," said Medina.

Ramirez said it took him about a week and a half to complete the project, starting his days at 6 a.m. and ending at 8 p.m.