Mural Arts Program to unveil new ASpire mural on Saturday
On Saturday, November 1st the Mural Arts Program will unveil a new mural at 21st and Ellsworth Streets. The art piece, created by Ernel Martinez, is called ASpire and is dedicated to the late Dr. Shawn L. White. The event will bring Mural Arts Month to a close with a street festival featuring music, food and vendors while honoring one of the cities most devoted activists.
UPDATE: Due to the rainy weather predicted for November 1, the ASpire mural dedication has been postponed. Mural Arts hope’s you can join them on Saturday, November 8.
The South Philadelphia native and mural subject became a community leader and health activist in the Point Breeze section of the city, implementing initiatives that educated young African American men about HIV/AIDS and sexually-transmitted diseases. Dr. White also had a hand in the music culture of Philadelphia, working with Roots members Questlove and Black Thought and helping to launch Beanie Sigel’s career. From MAP Executive Director Jane Golden:
Tariq recently joined our Board of Directors, and he implored us to pay tribute to his friend Shawn L. White…. The Mural Arts Program is pleased to work with so many people who are passionate about changing the community, and to use public art to continue the spread of important messages.
More information on the mural and its dedication event can be found here.