Embassy of the United States Paris, France

Mural in Bagnolet - DOS photo

A dialogue between local citizens, artists and urban spaces: Three murals are born in Bagnolet, Bondy and Villiers-le-Bel

For 25 years, the Mural Arts Program (MAP) of Philadelphia has worked with urban populations, contributing to a more united society. The program brings community members together to work on an artistic project, building social cohesion and improving the immediate environment. MAP gives citizens the opportunity to have a positive impact in their own neighborhoods. The idea of a pilot partnership between Philadelphia and France was born in spring 2008 in response to a request for a mural from Villiers-le-Bel. The Tourist bureau of Philadelphia and Culturesfrance soon joined the cause, as well as the towns of Bagnolet and Bondy. This pilot project shares a model to strengthen social ties and build a positive public image in sensitive neighborhoods.  After two months of work in the presence of three artists from Philadelphia, the inhabitants of Bagnolet, Bondy and Villiers-le-Bel are able to enjoy the wall murals which they helped to create. 

Official unveilings are scheduled for September 19 in Villiers-le-Bel, September 22 in Bondy and September 23 in Bagnolet.