New mural celebrates joy, resilience and creativity of older adults

A new mural in Southwest Philadelphia challenges stereotypes about aging and celebrates vibrancy. Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA), Mural Arts Philadelphia and HumanGood collaborated on it.
The mural is titled “Threads of Joy: Celebrating the Golden Years.” It is located at Ann Thomas Presbyterian Senior Apartments (2000 S. 58th St.). 

Philadelphia artist Kelley Prevard created the mural design. It features older adults dancing, gardening, socializing and laughing. These colorful scenes highlight the strength, beauty, wisdom and resilience of older Philadelphians. The project included months of community engagement. Residents of Ann Thomas Apartments helped create the mural. They participated in on-site art clubs, painted and contributed ideas that shaped the design.

A mural dedication event was held in June. The public, staff, community partners and local leaders gathered to celebrate. Speakers included: 

• Jane Golden, executive director of Mural Arts Philadelphia. 
• Joanna McClinton, speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. 
• Kenyatta Johnson, Philadelphia City Council president. 
• Laura Weinbaum, chief operating officer of PCA. 
• Cassandra Marin, administrator of HumanGood. 
• Kelley Prevard, the mural’s lead artist.

Art is powerful

The mural is proof that public art is powerful. It builds community pride, combats stereotypes and supports neighborhood revitalization.

In her remarks, PCA’s Weinbaum emphasized that aging is something to celebrate. “This mural reflects that spirit so powerfully: joy, movement, connection, creativity,” she said. “These are the very qualities we strive to support through the services we provide to older Philadelphians.”

The importance of collaboration behind this project was emphasized. “It is especially meaningful to see this partnership come full circle,” Weinbaum said. “PCA and Mural Arts first talked about this idea nearly four years ago. And today we see what that seed of an idea has blossomed into.”

Prevard’s thoughtful approach seamlessly weaves residents’ stories into the beautiful artwork. “We are so grateful to the residents who opened their lives, stories and talents to help bring this mural to life,” Weinbaum said. “What a testament to the strength and vibrancy of this community.”

The mural is part of PCA’s broader mission to empower older Philadelphians to thrive at home. This effort is especially timely after the COVID-19 pandemic. Older adults in Philadelphia were hit hard. The pandemic deepened health and economic disparities, as well as increased social isolation.

Despite these challenges, older adults have shown remarkable resilience. They have adapted to new technology and found creative ways to stay connected. PCA believes the mural honors that spirit. It highlights the contributions older adults make to families, neighborhoods and city culture.

For more than 50 years, PCA has worked to challenge the negative perceptions of aging. It is not something that divides people by generation. Instead, we see it as a shared journey that enriches the entire community. Through art, we can refocus how society sees aging — not as an “us” and “them” concept, but as a “we.” This acknowledgment celebrates growth, experience and wisdom.

PCA has long supported older artists through its annual Celebrate Arts & Aging festival. These events showcase the diverse talents of artists aged 55 and older. PCA has remained committed to helping older adults share their artistic creativity.

“Threads of Joy” is more than a stunning work of art. It symbolizes community collaboration and respect for older Philadelphians. The project serves as a reminder that art is for everyone and that aging is a gift to be recognized and celebrated.

Bill Conallen is the public relations specialist at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging.