August 4, 2016

A lovely new mural by Graphic Design alumnus, Brianna Protesto, can now be viewed in the lobby of our former location, Nesbitt Hall, now the home of the Dornsife School of Public Health. (Pictured, Brianna Protesto, Graphic Design Professor Mark Willie, and School of Public Health Professor, Stephen Lankenau in front of the mural.) The mural, which has been in the works for over a year, expresses the important overarching values of public health practice. Professor Mark Willie served as both an advisor and mentor for this project. “The committee, Mark and I…we came to the focus on a park scene to show people within a Philadelphia community enjoying their day; wearing helmets when they bike; exercising outside; growing vegetables at a community garden…” said Protesto.

The School of Public Health contacted Professor Willie in search of a student designer to develop a new mural for the newly renovated Nesbitt Hall. Having had Protesto as a student, he recognized her distinguished work as both a designer and illustrator. Protesto, a third year student at the time, interviewed and presented her portfolio to School of Public Health Professor, Stephen Lankenau. Protesto’s work was selected by the College, and after commencement in June 2016 the installation began.

Both Protesto and Willie drew inspiration from their collective experiences with the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program and their many murals that grace our City. The mural includes many of Protesto’s personal drawings.

The School of Public Health is located at 3215 Market Street, and the mural is located in the lobby.