Mural Arts Philadelphia Statement: Frank Rizzo Mural

Mural Arts Philadelphia has painted out the Frank Rizzo mural in South Philadelphia. 

UPDATED 6/7/2020

As of Sunday morning, the Frank Rizzo mural has been painted out by Mural Arts Philadelphia with the consent of the wall owner.

Mural Arts is grateful that we were able to work with the owner toward this positive resolution, and look forward to collaborating with the community on a new mural project that can reflect the fabric of S. 9th Street.

We know that the removal of this mural does not erase painful memories and are deeply apologetic for the amount of grief it has caused. We believe this is a step in the right direction and hope to aid in healing our city through the power of thoughtful and inclusive public art.

In the coming weeks, we will be laying the groundwork for creation of the new mural, which will include an extensive community engagement and artist selection process. We will make further announcements regarding next steps in the near future. If you’d like to receive communications from us, sign up for the Mural Arts newsletter at muralarts.org.

In the meantime, if you would like to support this new project, donations are being accepted at muralarts.org – note “S. 9th Street Mural” in the comment box.

We thank all who voiced their opinions and are hopeful that this may be one more step towards true equality and social justice.

For public inquiries, contact info@muralarts.org

For media inquiries, contact Cari Feiler Bender, Relief Communications, LLC

6/3/2020

The Frank Rizzo mural in South Philadelphia has again become a target for defacement amidst this national chapter of pain, grief, and anger over the recent death of George Floyd and the systemic racism plaguing our country.

For several years, Mural Arts Philadelphia has engaged the community in a discussion about the fate of the mural. After careful consideration, Mural Arts has decided to cease all involvement with the mural, effective immediately.  

We do not believe the mural can play a role in healing and supporting dialogue, but rather it has become a painful reminder for many of the former Mayor’s legacy, and only adds to the pain and anger.

We do not believe the maintenance and repair of the Rizzo mural is consistent with our mission. We think it is time for the mural to be decommissioned, and would support a unifying piece of public art in its place. Legally, in this case, because the mural is located on private property, the owner would need to approve of the removal or replacement of the mural, which has not been granted. At this time, Mural Arts will no longer be involved in the repair or restoration of the mural.

For public inquiries, contact info@muralarts.org.
For media inquiries, contact Cari Feiler Bender, Relief Communications, LLC.