our story of us

Kensington Healing Verse is a powerful mural project curated by Ryan Strand Greenberg. It’s an evolution of a previous project by Philadelphia Poet Laureate Trapeta B. Mayson, called Healing Verse Philly Poetry Line. This project features a unique approach to community healing, where poetry is used as a tool for sharing, listening, and reflection about life in the Kensington neighborhood. – Throughout 2021, the poet laureate conducted several poetry workshops with East and West Kensington residents, elementary school students, and individuals affected by substance use and housing insecurity. These workshops were designed to inspire participants to express their thoughts and experiences through poetry, enabling them to reflect on their daily lives, challenges, and aspirations. The collective poems created by the participants were compiled to form a shared vision for community and healing in Kensington. This vision was transformed into a neon sign and mounted on the rooftop of 2400 Kensington Avenue, becoming a beacon of hope, strength, and healing for the entire neighborhood. The poetry mural, with its vibrant colors and dynamic design, captures the essence of the Kensington community’s resilience and enduring spirit. Its uplifting message shines brightly and serves as a powerful reminder of the community’s strength and potential for healing. This project stands as a testament to the transformative power of art, and how it can bring people together to heal and inspire positive change in their communities.