by Ari Roth
(Photo by Steve Weinik for the Mural Arts Program. Used by permission.)
The City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program is a wonderful organization that fosters community-building and expression through murals and mural preservation throughout our city. This year, for the first time, they are partnering with the Wawa Welcome America event series in the lead-up to their big 4th of July Jam. We have previously written about the Liberty Block Party, one of the first events in the series, and this one looks great too.
Attendees of the Mural Arts Paint Day will collaborate to produce a mural that “represents the ideals and aspirations of the American people,” fitting in with the Independence Day theme. You’re can bring your own paint, but the organizers also promise plenty of supplies (and snacks!). The day will be free to all and it’s a great opportunity to connect with others creatively and have some outdoor fun.
The Mural Arts Program formed in 1984, and this year they are celebrating their 30th anniversary as a community organization. Since then, they have continued to grow and change lives in the city, while continuing to define the unique visual character of Philadelphia. As they state in their “Golden Rule,” “When we create art with each other and for each other, the force of life can triumph.”
In addition to Wawa, the Mural Arts Paint Day is sponsored by Wells Fargo and LISC. The event will run from 12 PM to 4 PM on this Sunday, June 29th (rain or shine), and it will be held on 1100 N. 41st Street in East Parkside. No matter your age or level of ability, you are encouraged to come out and paint a beautiful mural with your fellow Philadelphians.
