Mural Arts Philadelphia, in partnership with The Fire and the Northern Liberties Neighborhood Association, last week dedicated a new mural entitled Legendary Performances by artist Alloyius Mcilwaine that honors the legacy of Philadelphia’s only woman-owned music venue and celebrates the artistic history of Northern Liberties. The event took place on May 25 at The Fire at 412 W. Girard Ave. and featured live music, followed by a John Legend tribute show.
The mural’s focal point is musician John Legend, who performed at The Fire early in his career.
Mcilwaine said, “Not only did I get to paint incredibly talented artists like John Legend and Yasko Fujiì for the mural, but I also got to immortalize a venue with such a rich history. When I spoke to some of the local artists that regularly perform at The Fire, they told me that it was one of the only places where they felt like they could express themselves and get their music out to a broader audience.”
The Fire, which began as a small music venue in 1999, has grown to become the oldest original live music venue in Philadelphia, having hosted many artists on their rise to stardom, including Legend, My Chemical Romance and Maroon 5.
The mural project was made possible through the support of Penn Treaty Special Services District, the City of Philadelphia and The Fire. ••
