Just Do It

Collective Imprints

by Dana Henry

Every Sat., Nov. 6-Jan. 22 (excluding Dec. 25 and Jan. 1), 6-8 p.m., the Rotunda, 4014 Walnut St., 215-573-3234, www.foundationarts.org, gina@therotunda.org

It's no surprise that the Rotunda's first mural will be a community effort. The West Philly common space for arts and cultural expression has more than 10 years of experience integrating the surrounding neighborhood into its creative productions. Their latest project, Collective Imprints, will take that engagement one step further. "We want people to broadcast here," says Rotunda Director Gina Renzi. "We want to know what they think of this city, what it needs, what their street sounds like on a Saturday night, and what the Rotunda's commitment to community-based programming means to them."

Over the course of 10 weeks, the workshop series will turn the Rotunda's mission of "art as a catalyst for social change" into a large-scale mural inside the building. Eco-friendly pencils, paint and enough masonite sheets to cover two 4-by-40 balcony sides will be provided, but participant interpretation is key and all forms of expression are welcome. Artistic experience and familiarity with the Rotunda are not necessary, as everyone is welcome and encouraged to join in. "What we are doing is exploring the ideas of community, neighborhood, unity and people," says Renzi. "We're going to try to foster a creative and supportive environment."

The brainchild of muralist and arts activist Michael Schwartz, Collective Imprints honors the continuing progress of the Rotunda and has plenty of local support from loyal friends. Footage of the collaborative process is expected to air on WYBE-Philadelphia Public Television and partial funding has been provided by 40th Street Artists in Residency, of which Schwartz is a member. Rotunda regulars such as Women's Caucus for the Arts, National Black Arts and Holistic Moms Network have already joined in. "This project is simply our evolution manifested," says Renzi. "We'd like to think that we're contributing to the health of Philadelphia by convening diverse groups and having honest discussions and then committing, within that large group, ideas to visual art."