Philadelphia Microcosm

The set of diptych, or multi-paneled paintings, at Reading Terminal Market depict a rough timeline of the market’s and SEPTA’s roles in the community.

artist Jonathan Laidacker

Philadelphia MIcrocosm © 2019 City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program / Jonathan Laidacker, Jefferson Station. Photo by Steve Weinik.

Project Images 

  • Philadelphia MIcrocosm © 2019 City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program / Jonathan Laidacker, Jefferson Station. Photo by Steve Weinik.

  • Philadelphia MIcrocosm © 2019 City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program / Jonathan Laidacker, Jefferson Station. Photo by Steve Weinik.

  • Philadelphia Microcosm in-process, February 13, 2019. Photo by Steve Weinik.

  • Philadelphia Microcosm in-process, February 13, 2019. Photo by Steve Weinik.

  • Philadelphia Microcosm dedicaiton, June 18, 2019. Photo by Steve Weinik.

  • Philadelphia Microcosm dedicaiton, June 18, 2019. Photo by Steve Weinik.

  • Philadelphia MIcrocosm © 2019 City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program / Jonathan Laidacker, Jefferson Station. Photo by Steve Weinik.

About the Project 

The set of diptych, or multi-paneled paintings, at Reading Terminal Market depict a rough timeline of the market’s and SEPTA’s roles in the community. Using color to denote the passage of time, the images begin with a sepia-toned view of mid-century market-goers and train-riders. As the timeline progresses, the colors become more vivid, until they reach their full saturation in the present-day. The relatable imagery, including a still life of the produce sold at the market, a train station packed with commuters, and a parent and child at the lunch counter, evokes the truism that the more things change, the more they stay the same.

Sponsors 

Reading Terminal Market
SEPTA
Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau

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