‘Creating Awareness with Art while having Fun’
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History of the Mural Arts Program
The City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program began in 1984 through the Mayor Wilson Goode era as the Anti-Graffiti Network. The main purpose was to reach out to graffiti writers and redirect their artistic energies of destructive graffiti and apply it to constructive mural painting projects.
This program, since it’s inception, has produced over 3,000 murals which have adorned the affection of many Philadelphians. It’s part of the civic landscape and inspiration to the millions of residents and visitors who encounter them each year. Through the efforts of many, Philadelphia has earned international praise as the “City of Murals.”
Mural Arts Program Experience & Atmosphere
The Mural Arts Program has a wide variety of official tours of the “City of Murals.” Regularly scheduled trolley, walking, bicycle, and public transit tours utilize experienced guides who lead guests through Philadelphia’s neighborhoods. Visitors learn about city and neighborhood history, how the murals are made, and the stories behind them.
In every neighborhood you can see building walls transformed with images of heroes such as Dr. J to Frank Sinatra. Other building walls share fantastic landscapes or hope-inspiring scenes.
Mural Arts’ award-winning art education programs annually serve 1,500 youth at neighborhood sites throughout the city. Mural Arts’ programs are offered free and are targeted to at-risk youth.
One known public art project is the Love Letter project, consisting of 50 rooftop murals from 45th to 63rd Street along the Market Street corridor. These letters done as murals, express many types of feelings of love. Such as a love letter from a guy to a girl, an unique message from the local residents to its community or those visiting, artists expressing their love of art, and much more.
The Mural Arts Program’s success is due to muralist Jane Golden (hired originally when the program was started) and her three simple words that she uses as a personal and professional mantra: “Art Saves Lives.” This program brings together artists and community members, allowing individuals to express their hopes and dreams through art.
Location
Varies buildings throughout the City of Philadelphia
Tour Information
Purchase tickets, where tours are offer, and FAQ | Click Here
Contact
Click Here to contact Mural Arts Program
Special Events
Mural Arts Month – October 2012
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