New mural decorates Children’s Playhouse
It wasn’t just the record temperatures that made things appear tropical in South Philly.
Children’s Playhouse on Marshall Street in the Whitman neighborhood was the site of an art collaboration on June 24 as kids helped paint a mural called “Sharing Seasons, Growing Together.”
The new artwork is a vibrant reflection of South Philadelphia’s multicultural spirit and a celebration of collective transformation through education and community. The tropical theme reflects a feeling of relaxation, warmth and escape while symbolizing the power of growing together across seasons, identities and experiences. Designed by muralist Kien Nguyen and curated by Mural Miles, the artwork is a rich tapestry of color, faces and learning tools.
Craig Oppenheimer, founder of Mural Miles and a South Philadelphia resident, said, “We are proud to have this opportunity to help the Children’s Playhouse realize its vision of helping every child discover their own limitless potential.”
The mural was made possible via a $25,000 grant secured by state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler. The funding was given to enhance the school’s exterior and enrich the community with public art that speaks to belonging, identity and transformation. The mural’s unveiling coincided with Pride Month and Juneteenth. The mural is described as “an evolving seasonal landscape — from spring greens to autumn golds — paired with diverse portraits and symbols of learning, representing how individuals and communities flourish when diversity is embraced and education is accessible to all.”
The project was led by Nguyen, who has worked on more than 100 murals and has taught workshops for students. Currently, he is interested in themes of duality expressed through murals: symmetry and asymmetry, stillness and motion, simplicity and complexity, which fit perfectly into the plans of Children’s Playhouse.
“Revitalizing the exterior of Children’s Playhouse on Marshall Street is a project that can bring a sign of hope back into the community reminding people that we have a place that is still welcoming and still safe, no matter what,” said Children’s Playhouse owner Damaris Alvarado Rodriguez. “These enhancements to the school demonstrate that early childhood is always important.”
