Mural Arts featured on Abbott Elementary, March 1 at 9/8c on ABC!

ABC’s popular comedy series, Abbott Elementary, is set to showcase the transformative power of art in its upcoming new episode titled “Mural Arts,” which will air on Wednesday, March 1 at 9/8c on ABC. The episode will highlight Mural Arts Philadelphia (Mural Arts), the nation’s largest public art program, which has helped Philadelphia earn international recognition as the “Mural Capital of the World.”

In the episode, Jacob Hill, played by Chris Perfetti, secures a visit from fictional representatives of Mural Arts for his students but disagrees with their chosen design and tries to influence their decision. The inclusion of mural-making in the plot offers a glimpse into Mural Arts’ student-focused programs and highlights Philadelphia’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

In the days preceding the much-anticipated premiere of the episode, Quinta Brunson, the show’s creator, executive producer, co-writer, star, and a proud native of Philly, took to Twitter to express her gratitude towards Mural Arts. “Thank you all for being part of the show! Mural Arts is one of my favorite things about the city. This episode is actually inspired by the time Mural Arts came to my middle school and helped us create a mural that’s still there today. Love driving by it. ❤️”

Photo Cred: (ABC/Gilles Mingasson) JANELLE JAMES

Photo Cred: (ABC/Gilles Mingasson) CHRIS PERFETTI, JANELLE JAMES, SHWAYZE

Mural Arts has worked for nearly 40 years in middle and high schools throughout the School District of Philadelphia to inspire student creativity through art and mural-making experiences. With over 100 middle and high school students in Mural Arts’ Art Education program across schools in the district, the program helps unlock students’ creative capacities through both in-school and after-school arts-based programming.

“We believe art can ignite positive social change. Our Art Education program demonstrates to young people how art can do more than simply embellish a structure – it can serve as a means to inspire and empower both individuals and communities,” said Jane Golden, executive director of Mural Arts Philadelphia.

The episode also features actresses Sheryl Lee Ralph and Lisa Ann Walter as they learn that parents are petitioning to turn Abbott Elementary into a Legendary charter school.

Photo Cred: (ABC/Gilles Mingasson) TYLER JAMES WILLIAMS, QUINTA BRUNSON, LISA ANN WALTER, SHERYL LEE RALPH

Mural Arts is excited to be featured in the hit comedy series, which has won both Emmy and Golden Globe awards. “Our community at Mural Arts is such a fanbase for Abbott Elementary. We are delighted that Abbott Elementary has offered a distinctive window into the experiences of educators and pupils, as well as the rich artistic landscape and heritage of Philadelphia,” said Golden.

Catch the all-new episode of Abbott Elementary, “Mural Arts,” on ABC on March 1 at 9/8c, or watch it on demand on Hulu the next day.