Stop Domestic Violence / In Memory of Atiya Rodriguez

Stop Domestic Violence / Tribute to Atiya Rodriguez by artists Jane Golden, Barbara Smolen, Jason Slowik, and Craig Turner was located in the Spring Garden neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This mural foregrounds the issue of domestic violence and is in memory of Atiya Rodriguez (1974-1995), the woman pictured in the mural who was allegedly killed by her estranged boyfriend. The mural features Rodriguez trapped in a home, looking out of a window from behind bars. Her view is of lush fields and a colorful, picturesque landscape. Although this mural is somber, the artists managed to create a look on Rodriguez’s face that was serious but not harsh. It is an expression that the family feels reflects the spirit of Atiya Rodriguez. That she is behind bars in her home captures how trapped she was by her situation, reflecting the precarious situation of domestic violence victims.

Mural Arts Philadelphia’s Director Jane Golden met Rodriguez’s family while she was painting other murals in the neighborhood. The family felt they could trust the Mural Arts program to create a mural that would make a direct statement about domestic violence and that would also be a positive reminder of Rodriguez at the same time. As this mural was being painted, many neighbors and relatives came by to pay their respects.

Rodriguez’s grandmother was especially concerned that her granddaughter’s portrait faithfully reflect her personality. As part of the dedication of the mural, the community held a candlelight vigil and a march through the neighborhood. Rodriguez’s grandmother, though she was ailing, badly wanted to see the mural finished. She died two days after its dedication.

The mural was made possible by the Coalition for the Right to Live in Peace.

Location Note: Mural no longer on view at this location (covered by construction ca. 2006).