The World is Yours

The World is Yours by Ernel Martinez is located in North Philadelphia. It was done in conjunction with the “Communities in Schools of Philadelphia, Inc.”(CISP) after school program. This program provides a safe, nurturing environment for students in 1 st-8th grades. Students participate in comprehensive and integrated activities that help them develop socially, culturally, academically and emotionally. The mural was facilitated by Pastor Yates who runs the nearby Gather the People House of Prayer.

Martinez visited various local schools and inspired the students (mostly 3rd and 4th graders) to paint and draw. Martinez used the students’ drawings to help him come up with ideas for the mural. The mural addresses the diversity of children in the various neighborhoods and schools throughout the city. It also illustrates some of the programs (e.g. reading, tutoring, drawing, and arts) offered through CISP.