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Dedicated to advancing
socially-engaged public art practices
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Who we are
As part of Mural Arts Philadelphia , the Mural Arts Institute (MAI) is dedicated to sharing knowledge, ideas, and experiences that have shaped our approach to community centered art making. We work with artists, arts administrators, and community leaders across the world to align knowledge, amplify voices, empower change, and distribute resources that move us all towards a more inclusive and equitable future for socially engaged public art.
As part of Mural Arts Philadelphia , the Mural Arts Institute (MAI) is dedicated to sharing knowledge, ideas, and experiences that have shaped our approach to community centered art making. We work with artists, arts administrators, and community leaders across the world to align knowledge, amplify voices, empower change, and distribute resources that move us all towards a more inclusive and equitable future for socially engaged public art.
MAI Spotlight
2026 Muralist Training Program: Applications Now Open!
This winter, MAI will host their 24th annual Muralist Training Program (“MTP”) . Local artists who are interested in adapting their skills to community-based mural-making, are invited to join Philadelphia’s leading muralists and MAI staff for a unique cohort based learning opportunity. The training equips artists with the tools to lead their own projects and a comprehensive understanding of the community mural-making process– from community engagement strategies to community design approaches, project management checklists and templates, and production guidelines. A hands-on training in the mural cloth method, and sample materials are provided for artists as they practice and prepare for their next project. Now Accepting Applications! January – March 2026 Online & In-person in Philadelphia.
Join us! Researching the Impact of Murals for Philadelphians
Join us on October 9th at the University of Pennsylvania for this inspiring event that brings together cross disciplinary researchers working in Psychology, Neuroaesthetics, and Criminology, to share new research on the impact of murals for Philadelphians. Their independent work all relate to the impact of our city’s murals on the citizens of Philadelphia including reduction in neighborhood crime, perception of their environment, and on individual feelings of wellness or belonging. This research will be shared in a dynamic format that interweaves presentations by research experts followed by panel conversations with civic leaders and public art practitioners to illuminate new connections that exemplify how murals, and the work of Mural Arts, are integral to shaping a more connected and positive Philadelphia.
New & Extended Opportunities!
For artists: Check out the new Water Shed Resident Artist opportunity and the 2026 Gateways and Corridors RFQ has been extended to October 15!
Artist Spotlight: William Estrada
We've been highlighting the artist participants in the Strength through Solidarity Co-Learning Initiative. Check them out!
Artist Spotlight: De’von “Divine” Downes
We've been highlighting the artist participants in the Strength through Solidarity Co-Learning Initiative. Check them out!
Artist Spotlight: kolpeace
We've been highlighting the artist participants in the Strength through Solidarity Co-Learning Initiative. Check them out!
Featured Artists
Arthur Haywood
Limitless Aspirations
Tulsa, OK
Arthur Haywood’s paintings highlight human potential through a fantastical lens. He creates murals internationally in addition to cover and interior art for books and magazines. Creating fantasy art to inspire
Eva Wu
Worm World
Philadelphia, PA
Eva Wu is a multimedia artist based in Philadelphia for the past decade. A versatile artist, their bold works span moving image, social practice, interactive installations, and collaborative projects. They
Martolao (Martha O’Connell)
Seeing you through the layers of time
Philadelphia, PA
Martolao (Martha O'Connell) is an artist living and working in Philadelphia. Drawing is her best form of communication. Through her large scale drawings and murals, she explores memory, the connections
Eric Okdeh
Family Interrupted
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia based muralist and glass artist, Eric Okdeh began creating public art in 1998. After receiving his BFA in painting from Tyler School of Art, Eric chose to focus on
Molly Crabapple
No Borders
Philadelphia, PA
Molly Crabapple is an artist and writer whose inspirations include Toulouse Lautrec, Diego Rivera and Goya’s ‘The Disasters of War.’ She is the co-author of Brothers of the Gun, an
Rebecca Rutstein
Convergence
Philadelphia, PA
Rebecca Rutstein is a multidisciplinary artist whose practice bridges art, science and technology. For over 20 years she has created painting, sculpture, interactive installation and public art inspired by the
