Jul 27, 2018

Five Murals for Philly Free Streets

by: Laura Kochman

Artists Adam Alli and James Burns work on a ground mural for Philly Free Streets 2017. Photo by Steve Weinik.

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 

How to Turn Anything into Something Else by Miss Rockaway Armada. Photo by Steve Weinik.

Twelve artists from nationally recognized art collective Miss Rockaway Armada paired up with Art Ed students for this medley of color and perspective.

207 NORTH BROAD STREET

The Evolving Face of Nursing 

The Evolving Face of Nursing by Meg Saligman. Photo by Steve Weinik.

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.

BROAD AND VINE

North Philadelphia Heroes 

North Philadelphia Heroes by Cliff Eubanks. Photo by Jack Ramsdale.

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.

1214 NORTH BROAD STREET

Jackie Robinson 

Jackie Robinson by David McShane. James Burns' North Philadelphia Beacon Project is visible in the background. Photo by Steve Weinik.

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.

2803 NORTH BROAD STREET

The North Philadelphia Beacon Project: Rise 

The North Philadelphia Beacon Project, by James Burns. Photo by Steve Weinik.

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.

2701 NORTH BROAD STREET

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).

Last updated: Jul 27, 2018

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