Editing Philadelphia Mural Arts (section)

== History ==

Philadelphia Mural Arts originated in 1984 as the Anti-Graffiti Network, a city program that recruited graffiti writers to create murals instead of illegal tags. Artist Jane Golden, hired to lead the program, developed an approach that engaged community members in mural design and creation. This participatory model transformed the program from enforcement-oriented intervention to community development initiative.<ref name="muralarts"/>

The program grew through the 1990s and 2000s, producing murals that became Philadelphia landmarks. The shift from anti-graffiti focus to broader public art mission was formalized when the program became the Mural Arts Program (now Mural Arts Philadelphia). Golden's continued leadership has provided consistency while the organization has evolved to address contemporary issues and artistic approaches.<ref name="muralarts"/>

The program has created murals in virtually every Philadelphia neighborhood, with particular concentration in areas historically underserved by public investment. Murals address themes including civil rights, immigration, health, environment, and community history. The diversity of subjects reflects the community engagement process that shapes each project.<ref name="muralarts"/>