The Painted City Initiative
A Mission to Transform the Face and Culture of Chester
The Mission
To beautify the face of Chester via murals and public art projects while building community engagement and developing young artists.
The Vision
Imagine a city that is a living art gallery, that breathes life into its residents and inspires hope. Imagine every inch of a city painted with bold colors that you cannot take your eyes off of. Imagine a painted city.
The History
Chester was formerly the pride of greater Philadelphia. The city was the center of industry, shopping and entertainment. However during the late 20th Century, Chester fell into disrepair, poverty, and violence due to political corruption, departure of industry, gangs and other social ills. Currently, Chester is consistently in the top ranking communities for violence, crime and poverty in America.
The Obstacles
A few of the main obstacles to community revitalization are low property ownership and maintenance, a failing school district, a low tax base, lack of business support from within the community and cycles of poverty.
The Statistics
According to a study done by the university of Pennsylvania, areas with an increased level of public art saw an 18-30% reduction in violent crime. Additionally, properties with public art increased in value, lowered property crime and saw improved mental health in residents.
These statistical improvements came at an extraordinarily low monetary investment. Instead of investing 150k+ in increased law enforcement, neighborhoods with a 20k mural saw a greater impact!
Legacy arts Chester is seeking to apply these statistical insights to the neighborhoods in Chester, in a city wide initiative. The painted city initiative will improve mental health, increase property values, drive tourism/business and improve the well being of the Chester community.
Example of the transformation begun by Legacy Arts Chester at our flagship mural property.
The Process
1. Secure Site
2. Recruit Sponsor
3. Select Artist
4. Design
5. Create
Legacy Arts Chester is continually growing its database of approved mural locations and artists.
Detailed Process
Assessment & Approval
1. Assessment of mural site
2. Signed approval forms by property owner
3. Secure funding for project from sponsor
Design
1. Concept sketches by lead artist sent to owner & sponsor for approval
2. Approved sketch converted to color design
3. Colored design sent to owners & sponsor for approval
4. Edits (max 3 edits)
5. Final approval of design
Mural Creation & Installation
1. Mural is painted on site or on mural cloth
2. Mural is installed on site
3. Mural receives a clear coat seal
Celebration
1. Block party & Mural reveal is scheduled
2. Advertisements go out on all media platforms
3. Unveiling ceremony
Sponsorship
Your Role as a Sponsor:
The mural sponsor makes the project a reality! By providing the necessary funds we are able to commission an artist to create a one of a kind art piece for the painted city. As the sponsor, you, the property owner, and the artist collaborate and approve the final design.
Sponsorship Benefits:
- Your name/business included in all digital and print media publications
- Your name/business included in mural credits on the wall
- Speaking moment at mural unveiling
- A permanent testament to you/your business' philanthropic spirit
Project Sponsorship Ranges:
Legacy Arts Chester oversees projects ranging from 15k-80k. The average project is around 22.5k.
Want to Join the Movement?
You can make a difference in the lives of thousands of Chester residents while leaving a permanent mark of hope in our community. If you are interested in sponsoring a mural, please contact Tucker at tucker@legacyartschester.com today!