We Will Write
the World promotes early-childhood literacy through public art pieces
across Philadelphia.
The Philly Youth Selfie Project + Mural Arts
This mural brings together a project by Germantown
ArtHaus Founder & artist, Keisha Whatley, to showcase over 200 self-portraits
created by children and adults from across the city with artwork
about Reading Promises by Khalid Dennis.
Throughout the mural, viewers are prompted to think
of their own stories and characters that emerge from looking at the mural.
The dedication will feature:
fun family-friendly activities,
coloring stations,
face-painting, and
great music!
On Saturday,
October 14 , 2023
celebrate with the Germantown community from 12 – 2 pm
at The Germantown ArtHaus: 6228 Germantown Ave,
Philadelpia, PA 19144.
Have questions? Contact Phoebe Bachman
, Project Manager
at [email protected]
THIS PROJECT IS
FUNDED BY: We Will Write the World is funded by the WIlliam
Penn Foundation as part of a city wide initiative to promote literacy
through playful learning. The Philly Youth Selfie Project is partially sponsored
by Jumpstart Germantown and supported by community members throughout the city of Philadelphia.
The Mural’s Story
Whatley said that one of the first projects the nonprofit embarked on was a project focused on youth empowerment. “It only made sense,” she shared,”to focus on our most precious commodity… the future… and hope.” The Philly Youth Selfie Project started in 2021 soon after the building was acquired. Over 225 young people from all across the city have created beautiful self portraits that literally light up the neighborhood!
When Mural Arts Philadelphia launched their We Will Write the World Literacy-Rich Neighborhood initiative, it was a “real no-brainer” to collaborate and bring these two empowering ideas to life! In collaboration with artist Khalid Dennis, also known as BKLVisions, they worked tirelessly to bring the visions together seamlessly!
ABOUT
Mural Arts Philadelphia Mural Arts Philadelphia is the nation’s largest public art program, dedicated to the belief that art ignites change. For over 35 years, Mural Arts has united artists and communities through a collaborative process, rooted in the traditions of mural-making, to create art that transforms public spaces and individual lives. Learn more about Mural Arts Philadelphia
Germantown ArtHaus The mission of Germantown ArtHaus is to encourage and nurture creativity and personal growth through the promotion of high-quality community arts, wellness, education, and professional-development programming. The ArtHaus, located at 6228 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, will be a collegial place where artists can create, exhibit, and sell their work. A vibrant hub for the community, the ArtHaus will also be a safe place for our children to experience the boundless opportunities for freedom of expression the arts make possible. www.gtownarthaus.com.Keisha “I Make Everything Beautiful” Whatley, a Philadelphia-based fine artist & designer, has been the Creative Director of Custom Arts Studio since 2014. www.gtownarthaus.com
