It wasn't hard to figure out that the mural was part of the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program, a Program that has been around since 1984. As I began to do a little bit of research, I found that the Program started off as the Anti Graffiti Network. A Network that tried to redirect the destructive mindset of graffiti artists into a constructive mindset by painting murals that various communities in the city could appreciate.
To date, there are over 3,000 murals that have been produced since the Program has started. Not only does the Program beautify the city, but it also gives back to the community by offering art educational programs to local prisons and rehabilitation centers. In addition, they offer job and community service opportunities for those that are re-entering society after being released from prison.
Since I am intrigued by so many of the murals done by artists that collaborate with the Program, I decided to include some of them in my paintings. As stated before, the mural was done at the Philadelphia Senior Center. It was started in September of 2006 by Henry Bermudez and Michelle Ortiz, and finished in May of 2008.
The entire Mural
A section that intrigued me
The Mural Arts Program is truly a great Program! I suggest if you haven't taken the time to go on one of their tours, that you do so immediately! You will learn about the community that surrounds you and perhaps about yourself!
Pearls of Wisdom:
How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.
~George Washington Carver
Take the time today to be compassionate. It is only by the grace of GOD that we too are not in the same predicament.
Be blessed!
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