feature photo: Artists working at Mural Arts Fest 2023. Photo by Steve Weinik
Mural Arts Philadelphia (“Mural Arts”), alongside presenting sponsor TD Bank, recently announced the Mural Arts Month 2024 celebration this October, honoring its remarkable 40-year journey with the theme “Roots & Reimagination.” This month-long celebration will feature a rich tapestry of events, including mural dedications, artist talks, film screenings, interactive workshops, vibrant parties, and captivating public tours. Each event is designed to reflect on Mural Arts’ deep-rooted heritage while boldly reimagining the future of public art in Philadelphia. As we celebrate this significant milestone, we invite you to be part of this extraordinary journey.
Following the dedication of a Mural Arts Month mini-mural by artist Ayiana Viviana at LOVE Park, Mural Arts – the nation’s largest public art program – previewed its month-long celebration with happenings for all ages and interests. Highlights of Mural Arts Month 2024 include:
● Mural Arts Fest, a block party at LOVE Park, with music, food and hands-on activities, including live painting of mini murals entitled To the Polls to rally Philadelphia around civic participation through the act of voting.
● Special walking and trolley tours.
● New mural-themed sparkling rosé in partnership with Mural City Cellars.
● Partnership with the American Red Cross working to shine a light on Sickle Cell Awareness in Philadelphia communities.
● Dedications and activities featuring Philadelphia’s newest murals and public art projects, including a Jill Scott Tribute Mural at Girls High, a tribute mural honoring CB Kimmins, and Philly’s first permanent voting mural
● Mural Arts Month Closing Reception at Rec Philly.
“As we continue to celebrate Mural Arts’ 40th Anniversary, we invite residents and visitors alike to both honor the past and celebrate the people and places that have contributed to making Mural Arts the largest public art program in the country with this year’s theme, Roots & Reimagination,” said Jane Golden, executive director, Mural Arts Philadelphia. “This four-decade journey began as part of the Philadelphia Anti-Graffiti Network in 1984 and evolved into a dynamic public art organization that works collaboratively to transform urban spaces with works of art imbued with hope and dialogue.”
“We are grateful for the incredible work championed by Mural Arts Philadelphia and excited to see what’s in store for Mural Arts Month in 2024. TD Bank is proud to support diverse and emerging artists in the communities we serve. Philadelphia is a beacon for outstanding talent, and we are thrilled to support the effort to uplift and connect our communities through art,” said Paige Carlson-Heim, Head of Social Impact, TD Bank.
Inspired by the 2024 theme, artist Ayiana Viviana designed the mini mural titled A City Reimagined, now on display at LOVE Park at 16th Street and JFK Boulevard. Viviana is an abstract visual artist whose work often explores themes of emotional processing and cultural heritage. Known for her vibrant and impactful creations, Viviana draws inspiration from nature, resilience, and the beauty of human connections. Her artistic journey includes a notable collaboration with Mural Arts Philadelphia, where she designed the mini mural titled A City Reimagined for the 2024 theme. This piece, now on display at LOVE Park, reflects her deep engagement with themes of reimagination and community.
“Art helps me connect with my roots and process my experiences, allowing me to dig deep and nurture what is positive while letting go of what’s not,” said Ayiana Viviana. “Being part of Mural Arts’ celebration is affirming. It connects my past with the vibrant public art that shaped my appreciation for art.” People of all ages and interests are encouraged to participate in exploratory art events meant to inspire throughout October 2024 and to visit muralarts.org/muralartsmonth for updates.
Sponsors for Mural Arts Month include presenting sponsor TD Bank, lead sponsor PECO, contributing sponsor Roe Fabricators, participating sponsors The Fresh Grocer, Philadelphia Parks & Rec, Parkway Corporation, and with additional support from the Philadelphia Phillies, Atkins Olshin & Schade Architects, Colligas Family Shoprite Markets, and Margelle & Shelly Liss. Mural Arts’ 40th Anniversary is supported by Glenmede Trust Company, Comcast, and M&T Bank.
Philadelphia’s first permanent voting-themed mural, which will be dedicated on October 22, exactly two weeks before the 2024 election. This new mural, titled “Philly Votes: Legacy in Bloom,” is created by Philadelphia-based figurative illustrator, designer, and muralist Tai Corrienté Baucom. This project is a collaboration with Show Up Strong, a nonprofit organization dedicated to amplifying and empowering the voice of a generation.
Philadelphia RowHome Magazine's Blog 