We recently caught up with Rising Up Parramore’s lead artist Maureen Hudas, and she shared the significance of this mural and what inspires her as an artist. Maureen was born and raised in the Philadelphia area where she studied fine art at Moore College of Art and Design. She then obtained a BA in Interior Design from the University of Dayton in Ohio. Over the years Maureen has combined her love of fine art with interior design by designing and executing murals for both residential and commercial spaces.
What does painting this mural mean to you?
Painting this mural means a couple things to me. It is the largest exterior mural I’ve been asked to do, so firstly it meant a challenge. I knew that taking it on would push my boundaries and help me grow as both an artist and person, so I said yes. Aside from the challenge, being asked to tell a story about a community steeped in history that, until recently has had little attention is an honor. Getting to make art that puts a spotlight on people who dedicated their lives and careers to fight and achieve social justice and change for the better is fulfilling. It feels like art with a greater purpose … to inform, to honor, to connect, to inspire.
Why is it important that "Rising Up Parramore" is painted?
It is important that this mural is painted because, like most art, it can be a catalyst for conversation. Our hope is that people can learn about their fellow community members before them who did great things and be inspired by them to keep fighting for a better future. While these Paramore community members in the mural may have paved the way, the road is not finished!
What's the significance of murals for communities?
Community murals are not merely paint on a wall. They tell stories about the community and its history. They often highlight the people and places that are unique to the area. This can give a community its one-of-a-kind identity and a sense of pride. The design and colors can often be uplifting and promote a sense of hope all while beautifying the neighborhood.
What inspires you as an artist?
What inspires me most as an artist is the connections that art can create. It is a bridge or a conduit between all of us that transcends our differences and reminds us all of our common humanity. I am inspired by the other artists I work with and the interaction we get to have with the people in the community while working on the mural. I was born and raised in Philadelphia where they have a city mural program.
There are so many beautiful murals there and they’ve all been painted through a program that works with at risk youth, previously incarcerated men and women, and those trying to recover from addiction. It is a true testament of the healing power of art, not just in communities, but for individual artists as well.
There are so many beautiful murals there and they’ve all been painted through a program that works with at risk youth, previously incarcerated men and women, and those trying to recover from addiction. It is a true testament of the healing power of art, not just in communities, but for individual artists as well. Learn more about Rising Up Parramore.