Every two years, Mural Arts’ Porch Light program partners with a behavioral
health provider to embed an artist within their organization, creating
collaborative murals with participants.
This year, artist
Marisol de la Garza
worked with
COMHAR, a
mental health and recovery provider with a rich history of incorporating art
into its services. Through workshops in painting, clay, and collage,
participants explored self-expression and healing, contributing to the
creation of
The Path Through Connection. The vibrant mural features participants’ poetry and reflects their
collective understanding that mental health is a journey—one strengthened
through connection. Installed in Kensington, the mural builds on Porch Light’s
long-term work in a community deeply impacted by substance use. The Path
Through Connection not only brings beauty to the neighborhood but also
highlights the power of creative expression in supporting recovery and
fostering connection.
SPONSORS:
City of Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual
disAbility Services, Stavros Niarchos Foundation, City of Philadelphia
PARTNER: COMHAR
The Path Through Connection dedication, September 27, 2024. Photo by Ta'Liyah Thomas.
The Path Through Connection dedication, September 27, 2024. Photo by Ta'Liyah Thomas.
The Path Through Connection dedication, September 27, 2024. Photo by Ta'Liyah Thomas.
