Residents at Ann Thomas Apartments Share Their Joy Through Art Club Activities

I enjoyed the music and the live band we had for Mardi Gras; I enjoyed the socialization and using my artistic creativity.

— Rochelle Cade, Art Club Participant

Line Dancing. Photo by Mural Arts Staff.

As part of our work in Southwest Philadelphia, Mural Arts is creating a new mural at the Ann Thomas Presbyterian Senior Apartments. With generous funding from the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement initiative (PHARE), and in collaboration with Humangood, and the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, Mural Arts has been able to provide residents and staff at Ann Thomas Apartments with impactful and engaging art projects that reflect the community’s interests and sources of joy.

Artist Kelley Prevard has created a mural design to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about aging. The mural features seniors engaged in various activities including dancing, gardening, communing and laughing. Design content was gathered during community-based events.

Fat Tuesday Celebration. Photo: Naeemah Patterson.

An Art Club was created to make it possible for residents to help paint the mural and to participate in other artmaking activities. Some highlights included a Special Fat Tuesday Celebration in March, and a workshop to create mosaic planters for Mother’s Day coming up in May. The Art Club continues monthly through May. The mural will be completed and installed by June 2025. A dedication ceremony and celebration will be planned and will include all participants.

Mural Painting. Photo: Naeemah Patterson.

“It has been an incredibly rewarding experience to engage with the community at Ann Thomas, says artist Kelley Prevard. “From our first painting session, where everyone was a bit nervous, to now watching them embrace their creativity with confidence, it’s been beautiful to witness their growth. This vibrant community has not only painted together but also shared stories, danced, and created lasting memories. Through art, we’re fostering connections and celebrating the beauty and wisdom that come with age. I am deeply grateful to have the opportunity to honor this wonderful community. Their stories and creativity have not only enriched the mural but also turned it into a symbol for all, showcasing the vibrancy and vitality of aging.”

It was a nice experience; something we have not done before. We would come down, mingle and help paint the mural. To see how it was coming to a head, I think that was a good thing. I especially enjoyed line dancing, and the Mardi Gras celebration.

— Sharon Huff, Art Club Participant