D.S. Gordon Murals

These two murals were completed at the end of September 2011 for the Visitors Center on Independence Mall, Philadelphia. This location is adjacent to the site where the Constitution was created and signed in the summer of 1787. One of the unique qualities of our Constitution is its ability to formally incorporate change over time. This contemporary look back at history focuses on the initial steps necessary to effect change: self empowerment and becoming informed.

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"Acknowledgement"
30 feet x 20 feet, 2011
This painting depicts the July 4, 1788 Philadelphia procession celebrating the ratification of the new Constitution. Francis Hopkinson describes one group of participants as "the Christian clergy, including the Rabbi of the Jews walking arm in arm." These men are viewed by Reverend Richard Allen, a founder of the AME Church as he stands just inside the covered High Street market. Neither women nor African American men were allowed to march in the procession.

"Apprised"
20 feet x 20 feet, 2011

This painting depicts a busy market day on September 19, 1787. A woman is reading aloud from the first newspaper printing of the draft constitution.

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Mural photographs courtesy of Albert Lee
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