To the Polls (2022)

To the Polls was a temporary exhibit hosted by Mural Arts Philadelphia and Streets Dept Walls in LOVE Park on public view October 25-November 4, 2022. Six 8×12-foot geometric panels held the work of De’von Downes, Donna Grace Kroh, Frank Chappell III, John Zerbe, Natalie Hope McDonald, and Rachael Reyes-Vazquez, six artists’ ideas, interpretations, and wishes about a straightforward directive: go vote.

Against the backdrop of Philadelphia City Hall, these temporary murals act as a reminder of the direct result of civic engagement – we choose who represents us. The art, bold and colorful against the looming, stately gray of the building, hold power: the power of voting, the power of the people, the power to ignite change.

Art is a critical tool of advocacy, and murals are the most democratic form of art that exists. Public art and voting education and advocacy are a natural combination. To the Polls encourages Philadelphians to fight for the future they want, embraces communities historically disenfranchised, and reaches out to passersby to remind them to make their mark through voting. Every year we are told that this is the most important election of our lifetimes! 2022 was no exception. The world can feel chaotic and out of control, with escalating attacks on the fabric of our democracy and our communities. So many issues can feel overwhelming. But like any project, the project of democracy can only transform with one first brushstroke or a single ballot.

This was Mural Arts’ third year working with Streets Dept on this public exhibit. Previous exhibits encouraged people “to vote for those who cannot” and to vote for “our voting rights ancestors.” In 2022, those messages echoed true as a reminder of all we have lost and gained fighting for a better, brighter world.

Location Note: Murals no longer on view at this location (temporary project).