Jewels of Mantua

Jewels of Mantua by artist Shira Walinsky is located in the Mantua neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. To create these murals, University of Pennsylvania students began by interviewing Mantua residents about what makes the neighborhood unique. A central theme that emerged from these interviews was the interrelatedness of the people of Mantua. These connections came from church, families, and community connectedness among other factors.

Comprised of two murals, the south wall focuses on pastes featuring a series of old family photos collaged with names of families and individuals who have supported the neighborhood in various ways. The north wall (shown here) incorporates newer images of Mantua residents and a Langston Hughes poem about the idea of growth and connections between generations. The murals are dedicate to Dolores Winans.

Jewels of Mantua was originally installed on two sides of an open green space. As of 2010, new construction on the intervening lot has changed the viewing opportunities for these murals.

Location Note: New construction on what used to be an open space between the murals may inhibit full public access. Please be respectful of private property when viewing the murals.