Five Murals for Philly Free Streets
Philly Free Streets is back, and we can’t wait. If you missed it last year, this people-powered initiative from the City’s Managing Director’s Office temporarily closes down a street so that we can walk, bike, and play (and paint!) to our hearts’ content. It’s incredible to see the way that public space (our streets!) shifts when one familiar element disappears—suddenly, the city is new again, and open to our collective imagination.
This year, the route follows North Broad Street from City Hall to Butler Street, just north of Erie Avenue, with Mural Arts activations along the way. We’re painting three ground murals, and you can find family-friendly art activities at the intersection of Broad and Fairmount. And if you’re walking the four-mile stretch, you can find 15+ murals along the way. Want a taste?
How to Turn Anything into Something Else
Twelve artists from nationally recognized art collective Miss Rockaway Armada paired up with Art Ed students for this medley of color and perspective.
The Evolving Face of Nursing
The project from Meg Saligman honors the invaluable role of nurses, incorporating their stories of healing and hope into an innovative design that lights up the night.
North Philadelphia Heroes
This mural from artist Cliff Eubanks was created in collaboration with teens, who interviewed the families of neighborhood heroes Alphonse Deal and Dr. Ethel Allen, and then created a mural in their honor.
Jackie Robinson
This iconic mural from artist (and sports fanatic) David McShane was inspired by photos of Robinson stealing home base in the 1955 World Series, one of the most significant moments in baseball history.
The North Philadelphia Beacon Project: Rise
One of our most-beloved Porch Light murals, this artwork from artist James Burns reminds us that we are a community of individuals, each with a voice and power.
Tag your Instagram and Twitter photos with @muralarts and #muralarts for a chance to be featured on our accounts! And stay up-to-date on #PhillyFreeStreets on Instagram (@PhillyFreeStreets), Twitter (@PhillyFreeSts), and Facebook (PhillyFreeSts).