Mural Arts program in Philly

Mural at 21st and Chesnut Streets, Philadelphia. Flickr Photo by Philanthropoid.

Dan responded to my Beautiful Decay piece, commenting about the difference between graffiti and art-murals-community-building. I wholeheartedly agree. Public art is a big interest of mine, and I am more interested in the mural end of things, rather than the painted cows or elephants (although I am more okay with functional public art like benches).

Steven Heff waits for a bus on a bench decorated with a Laurel and Hardy theme on Oak Park Avenue in Tinley Park. Twenty-five benches are decorated along five blocks. (Chicago Tribune photo by Ed Wagner)

Anyway, John MacDonald, from Philadelphia's Mural Arts program writes--

Philadelphia magazine's 2005 Best of Philly section to recognize the Mural Arts Program. Issue hits newsstands Friday!

Philadelphia magazine's Best of Philly is not only a celebration of Philadelphia-area businesses, it is also an opportunity for them to give back to their community. Each year, Philadelphia magazine recognizes the efforts of a local nonprofit organization which is doing their part to make Philadelphia a great place to live.

This year, Philadelphia magazine has chosen the Mural Arts Program for their admirable crusade to beautify our city and inspire its youth. Philadelphia Magazine's Best of Philly issue hits newsstands this Friday. Be sure to pick up your copy! And tune in to CBS-3 Thursday, July 28 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, July 31st at 11 a.m. for an inside look at the upcoming August Best of Philly issue.

Borf photo from Flickr, by Michael Oliver.