Mt. Airy CDC recently partnered with Germantown ArtHaus on a colorful new mural that is highlighting local youth while beautifying the Avenue. The mural, located on the east side of the ArtHaus’ historic Swain building at 6228 Germantown Avenue, is the product of ArtHaus founder Keisha Whatley’s effort to showcase over 200 self-portraits created by children across the city. It was created by Mural Arts’ We Will Write the World project, with support from Mt. Airy CDC’s Literacy-Rich Neighborhood Initiative–funded by the William Penn Foundation–and artwork by Khalid Dennis inspired by the Reading Promise campaign.
The self-portraits that make up the mural were created during 17 workshops with young people who were given painting supplies and a mirror. The outcome is both empowering and fun, as viewers are prompted to think of their own stories and characters that emerge from engaging with this work of art, whose themes include youth empowerment, community development, and literacy.
Mt. Airy CDC’s Executive Director Philip Dawson and Literacy & Schools Coordinator Roberta Frempong both spoke at the mural’s dedication this fall, joined by community stakeholders who celebrated the unveiling of this proud new installation.
