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Mural Arts Program Opens Public Outreach Center In Gallery Shopping Mall

By John McDevitt

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Philadelphia's Mural Arts Program has leased new space in the Gallery at Market East, creating a place for the public to explore what the world's largest public art program has to offer.

It's also expected to help boost sales at the shopping mall's businesses.

A ribbon was cut today for "Mural Arts at the Gallery," a public space located on the third floor of the mall at 9th and Market Streets.  There is retail space, a gallery, and an art studio.

Jane Golden, director of the Mural Arts Program, says it's also where you can buy tickets for tours of the city's hundreds of murals.

"Seven incredible routes," she notes.  "They can go on walking tours (but) they'll have to wait for bike tours until the spring.  New work is being generated all the time," she adds. "In fact, every year 75 to 100 new projects are completed. So, what a wonderful way for people to see Philadelphia and to see art!"

Money raised will go back into the nonprofit organization.

map footprint mcdev
(Credit: John McDevitt)

There are sneaker footprint images on the floor throughout the mall (right) directing the thousands of expected visitors to the new space.   Ed Glickman, president and CEO of PREIT, the company that owns the mall, says he and the other mall tenants are delighted.

"When Jane said she wanted to bring 20,000 people to the Gallery, it wasn't a long discussion," he recalls.  "I'm thrilled that they are all going to come here.  I hope that they all shop and have a good time!"

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