A Kensington-born potter, social activist, spoken word poet, and educator, Roberto Lugo sees his pottery as a process of transforming the ground we walk on into something we eat from.  His studio practice communicates with diverse audiences that, in some cases, are not so invested in using art to understand the world.  Over the past two years, Roberto has led ceramic workshops at Tyler School of Art and several virtual design challenges with youth in Mural Arts’ Education program. These workshops have tapped into everyday patterns and ceramic traditions from all over the world. Lugo will be creating a large mural inspired by Roots leading member and proud Philadelphian, Tarik Trotter. Trotter’s multi-talented and visionary approach to his creative practice and humble dedication to his home city are core aspects of Lugo’s mural homage.

A longtime advocate for The Clay Studio and its community programs, Lugo’s new mural will be installed on The Clay Studio’s brand new building in Olde Kensington at 1425 N American Street. The building is slated to be completed in late summer 2021, and the mural will be installed as construction nears completion. 

Partners: The Clay Studio, Olde Kensington Neighbors Association, South Kensington Community Partners