Learning, Play and Unity in the Community

Learning, Play and Unity in the Community (sometimes called Peace and Unity in the Community) by artists Joe Brenman and Danny Polanco is painted on two exterior walls near the entrance to the John Welsh School located in the Norris Square neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The artists described the mural in an artist statement:

“The mural was based on learning and community. Its focal point is a large glass mosaic sun that radiates from the corner outwards and illuminates painted portraits of the students at Welsh. The students are seen in learning scenarios and at play. In the main entry to the school there is a series of clay reliefs depicting different aspects of school life. The clay reliefs gain intensity from the glass mosaic design surrounding them. The students and members of the community contributed and participated in the design and installation of the mural. Their great enthusiasm and artistic expression, both in the classroom and while working on the mural, were truly inspiring.”

The mural was created as part of a five-year mural-making partnership between The School District of Philadelphia and the City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program that ran from 2004-2009.