History in the Present Moment (I AM); Procession; Portals of Progress & Play

The result of numerous community meetings in North Philadelphia neighborhoods over 2019-2020, The Viaduct was a monumental effort and collaboration between artists and community leaders to turn three heavily-traveled underpasses into safe and vibrant spaces for all. The designs are reflective of the strength and resilience of surrounding neighborhoods and pay homage to the complexity, history and beauty of the community, portrayed in bright, abundant colors to demonstrate the power of accomplishing together what we cannot do alone.

Community Engagement

As part of the design development process artists were asked to host a series of community events in the neighborhood near their assigned underpass mural. These events started in January 2019 and ran through early spring 2020. They ranged from painting large sunflowers and making mosaic pots, to community dinners and a dress-up photoshoot. Events helped artists further engage with the community, collect input, images and stories to help evolve their designs. Photographers Shawn Theodore and John Noble captured the community spirit of these events.

Norris Street Underpass

History In The Present Moment (I AM), Procession, Portals of Progress & Play, designed by artists Patrick Dougher and Josh Sarantitis, calls attention to the divine nobility, royalty, and spirituality of the local community. The south wall, called Portals of Progress & Play, uses color, design, and texture to speak to the complexity and beauty of the community and the traditions of the African diaspora, showcasing bright colors and bold festive designs. The north wall, called Procession, represents the royal procession of the present moment.

Poems included in the design were also inspired by the “royalty” and beauty of the community members. The “Hood Haikus” were written specifically for the mural design and were contributed by Philadelphia poet Ursula Rucker.

“There crowns like light beams
Bridge blocks graced with gold leaf in
This royal domain”