The History of Mural Arts Month

Dear Friends,

As the autumn leaves begin to paint the city in vibrant hues, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement in the air. October is here, and with it comes the return of a cherished tradition: Mural Arts Month. 

In 1998, shortly after we became the Mural Arts Program, I read about how San Francisco had a “Mural Arts Week.” San Francisco used this period to promote their collection and provide educational programming. I thought, well, we don’t want to copy San Francisco, so let’s have a “Mural Arts Month”! 

Our first Mural Arts Month was so exciting. We partnered with Live Arts Fringe and did an event in empty lots around 3rd and Arch; we had our first tour with the White Dog Cafe and dedicated a few murals. I remember doing all of this with two other people. We only had a staff of 5, but that did not stop us from building excitement and a network of people who supported our work. After that, we couldn’t stop. We grew Mural Arts Month into a multidisciplinary celebration of our work, including block parties, dedications, panel discussions, and films.

As we expand our reach, purpose, and aspiration, we want to continue to shine a light on the field of muralism and the importance of the art form; they provide our city with inspiration, vision, and hope.

But we also want to promote the life that exists beyond the bounds of the murals’ two dimensions – the work is alive, and Mural Arts Month is a wonderful way to acknowledge and thank our supporters, shine a light on our artists, and reinforce the importance of art. 

Mural Arts Month is a canvas onto which we can paint our aspirations, a platform to raise funds and garner support for our vital mission, and an opportunity to shed light on the crucial issues we address both at Mural Arts and in our beloved city. Moreover, it presents a chance to introduce new audiences to our work, welcome fresh donors into our community, and amplify the voices of the artists we hold dear.

This year’s Mural Arts Month will explore the theme “The Power of Commitment” and reflect on the power and significance of art while also inviting joy, laughter, and a sense of community. 

Let us come together as a vibrant community united by our shared passion for art and the transformative power it holds. Together, we will create an unforgettable experience that will not only beautify, inspire, and empower but also leave an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Philadelphia. That’s our commitment to you.

With profound excitement and unwavering dedication,

Jane Golden

Executive Director

Find out about Mural Arts Month 2023 Events here.