A Blinding Light: Iterations 1-5 & A Distant Spark: Iterations 1-5

A Blinding Light: Iterations 105 and A Distant Spark: Iterations 1-5 are two mural series by artist Andréa Grasso installed in the 15th Street Concourse leading to Suburban Station in Center City Philadelphia. The project’s overarching theme is connectivity, shown through the flowing compositions of the design, the designs adjacent to each other, and the ones across the corridor. The mural piece comprises ten panels, five on each side of the concourse along 15th Street. The designs on one wall come directly from work with participants who did workshops on abstract geometric collages. The second wall is also inspired by participants and includes shapes that add complexity and chaos, reminiscent of the present and future of the city. They represent the development of the city over time and the layering and overlapping of infrastructure, including the underground work of the subway system. The central design in the series is reminiscent of the city center, a hub from which everything radiates.

Color Me Back is an innovative program that combines participatory art-making and access to social services in a unique model offering individuals who are experiencing economic insecurity an opportunity to earn wages. Participants have the opportunity to connect, contribute, and engage with peer specialists who can link them with support services, including social and/or behavioral health services and potential opportunities for longer-term employment while working in the program.

The Color Me Back program was designed in partnership with the Scattergood Foundation, SEPTA, and Mental Health Partnerships. The initiative is managed by Mural Arts’ Porch Light department in collaboration with the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services. Funding has been provided by the City of Philadelphia, the Barra Foundation, the Sheller Family Foundation, the Legacy Foundation, the Union Benevolent Association, and many others.

Location Note: This project is installed at the 15th street concourse from City Hall to Suburban Station.