Flourish on 52nd is a community-driven art project that celebrates the rich Black heritage of West Philly’s historic 52nd Street— both its past and its present. Once known as “The Strip,” 52nd Street was a lively center for Black entertainment, plays, dining, and shopping. Jazz clubs lit up the nights, and theaters showcased unforgettable performances. The community would dress to the nines to see legends like Cab Calloway, Dizzy Gillespie, Moms Mabley, Stevie Wonder, Teddy Pendergrass, and so many more. Flourish on 52nd presents an ongoing series of original mixed-media collage, art posters that will exhibit in shop windows and local businesses along the corridor. The legacy posters have been designed by community artists, many of whom have deep roots on and around 52nd Street. Spearheaded by artist Sheena Garcia, the founder of The Philadelphia Art & Urban Literary (PAUL), these legacy posters reflect the neighborhood's vibrant soul, culture, memories, and movement. Each poster features a QR code that opens up to a short reflective audio story from the artist who designed the poster. Think of it as an artist-talk that you can enjoy on your phone as you stroll 52nd St. The first series of poster designs are nearly finished. This is just the beginning of this ongoing visual celebration of 52nd Street's past, present, and creative future.
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