Description:
Always Dreaming, Alway Growing
Hands of Nourishment” is a vibrant, site-specific mural by artist Manuela Guillén located in the café of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Visual and Thematic Description
Imagery: The mural is characterized by Guillén’s signature use of tropical colors and lush floral motifs, drawing inspiration from her Cuban and Salvadoran heritage.
Symbolism: It features a series of hands integrated with natural elements like plants and flowers. These “hands” serve as a tribute to the diverse individuals—from farmers and harvesters to chefs—whose labor sustains the global food chain.
Purpose: Commissioned as part of a collaboration for Women’s History Month, the piece is designed to foster a sense of connection and empathy. By placing this message within the museum’s dining area, Guillén encourages visitors to pause and reflect on the social justice and environmental stories behind the food they are eating.
Style: The work blends portraiture with abstract nature scenes, typical of Guillén’s “artivism” style, which aims to make sociopolitical issues accessible through beauty and community joy.
Location:
2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130.
In Collaboration with:
Project Duration:
6 Week