Our Land, Our Movement Project Celebration

Join us as we celebrate the culmination of the dynamic public art project, Our Land Our Movement project! This signature project for the Mural Arts’ Porch Light is a collaboration with the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS). Following the DBHIDS TEC Comprehensive Plan that addresses trauma, achieving equity, and engaging community, this expansive series sought to foster healing, connectivity, and a renewed sense of belonging within communities that have historically felt disconnected, unsafe, or restricted from their own bodies and neighborhoods. The dedication showcases several months of public performances engaging teenagers from West Philly, Olney, and Chinatown in collaboration with ReEntry Community Garden, Roots Garden at Fisher Park, and various locations in Chinatown, including Inch-by-Inch Garden and Asian Arts Initiative.

Teen participants worked with visionary artist Marguerite Hemmings and a team of facilitators/designers to create performances. The performers became a walking mural, painting their neighborhoods with movement and storytelling, using bright fabrics, face makeup, and adornment that reflected their most vibrant selves. Performances occurred in September. The dedication will take place at the Icebox Project Space on Thursday, November 14, 2023, from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM, to unveil new artwork, show a screening of the performance series, and invite others to enjoy food, dance, and music.