The Limitless Galaxy of Learning

The Limitless Galaxy of Learning is a series of interior and exterior murals at the Allen M. Stearne School in the Frankford neighborhood of Philadelphia. The theme of the murals is that life is a learning journey, anywhere at anytime. In spring and summer of 2019 the exterior of the school underwent a dramatic transformation when walls were covered with murals, and new playground equipment, synthetic turf fields and landscaping was provided by the Philadelphia Eagles Annual Playground Build.

The school leadership committee with some students brainstormed for the mural designs. Ideas reflected setting high goals, following dreams, and taking pride in the history of the local football team (Frankford Yellow Jackets). The designs followed around the playground and building walls. An inspirational quote greets students as they enter the school: “Enter as a hungry caterpillar . . . emerge as a brilliant butterfly.”

Since 1999, the Philadelphia Eagles (as the Philadelphia Eagles Youth Partnership from 1999-2015) has funded an annual Playground Build that includes the entire Philadelphia Eagles organization, including players, coaches, and staff members, with a Philadelphia school community to transform asphalt school yards into beautiful, imaginative and safe spaces for play and recreation. Mural Arts Philadelphia joined this partnership between the Eagles and the School District of Philadelphia in 2002. Mural Arts leads the development and production of the murals and mosaic tables that are part of these projects. Once a school is selected, Mural Arts leads an introductory pep rally at the school, as well as drawing workshops and after-school art programs with students to involve the school community in developing a theme for the project. Murals are then designed around the theme, often incorporating student drawings and artwork. The projects also include installations of play structures and a mini Eagles turf field in addition to the colorful murals and mosaic tables.

Location Note: Some murals are located in the interior of a school building and therefore are not available for public viewing.