the porch light program
The Porch Light Program & DBHIDS
The Porch Light Program is a joint initiative between Mural Arts Philadelphia and the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS). As a primary funding partner, DBHIDS enables Porch Light to use the mural-making process as a vehicle for recovery and social connection. By integrating clinicians, service providers like COMHAR, and community members into the creative process, we transform public spaces into symbols of resilience, specifically targeting areas with high health disparities to promote wellness and reduce stigma.
Project Overview
Mural Arts Philadelphia is seeking a lead artist to design and install a permanent mural on a COMHAR, Inc. facility in Kensington. COMHAR is a nonprofit leader providing a broad spectrum of integrated behavioral health, intellectual disability, HIV/AIDS, and home health services to children, adults, and the elderly. The mural will be situated on a COMHAR building, serving as a visual anchor for recovery and a reflection of the dignity of the individuals served by the organization.
We are first seeking an art educator who will offer recurring workshops to individuals with mental health diagnoses who are participating in rehabilitative programming at one of COMHAR’s CIRCs (Community Integrated Recovery Centers). Secondly, we are seeking a muralist to complete a public artwork that is co-created with COMHAR’s community. For this RFQ, we will consider applicants who are interested in 1.) only offering workshops at COMHAR, and 2.) leading both workshops and a mural project. We will prioritize finding an art educator who has lived experience or experience working with adults with mental illness or in recovery.
Scope of Work & Timeline
Application Phase (Spring): Applications must be submitted by May 31, 2026.
Engagement Phase (Late Spring/Summer): Facilitate 3–5 workshops with COMHAR staff, service users, and Kensington residents to gather input and build trust.
Design Phase (Summer): Develop a concept that adheres to the Porch Light mission of promoting wellness and reducing stigma.
Execution Phase (Fall): Full mural installation to be completed in Fall 2026, including a community “Paint Day” and a formal dedication ceremony.