Mural Arts Philadelphia, the City of Philadelphia, and the Philadelphia Phillies partnered to announce the unveiling of a new mural in South Philadelphia of Phillies great, Dick Allen.

The unveiling of the mural design took place on Wednesday, December 7, 2023, which is the third anniversary of Allen’s passing.

Mayor Jim Kenney played an integral role in getting the idea of a mural honoring the baseball star to come to fruition.

“Murals and public art shape our city in so many ways – as do our beloved sports teams,” he said.

The upcoming mural will add yet another added layer to what makes Philadelphia the Mural Capital of the World. 

Jane Golden, executive director of Mural Arts Philadelphia, often touts the city’s 4,000-plus works of public art across the city.

She often discusses how “art ignites change.”

Beyond that, art and murals can serve as a force within a community.

“And as a storytelling medium that honors the life and legacy of individuals like Dick Allen,” Golden said.

The new mural will be designed by renowned artist Ernel Martinez and will be located on the 2200 block of South Broad Street, not too far from Citizens Bank Park.

Allen played nine of his 15 seasons in the MLB with the Phillies and has his No. 15 jersey retired by the team.

However, he has fallen short of being inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame on numerous occasions. 

“Every time I met him after he was way retired, he was gentle and kind and soft-spoken and a decent person,” said Kenney. “And I will tell you right now, he belongs in the Hall of Fame.”

The new mural will be completed in the spring.

Read more about Dick Allen and the new mural coming to South Philly honoring him in Mural Arts Philadelphia’s website.

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