Join us from May 22, 2026, to September 1, 2026, for Roots of Resilience, which explores the many cultures that have helped shape the city. Artists were invited to design flags that tell stories of hope, strength, and community, honoring the journeys of those who made Philly their home. From textiles to digital art, these powerful designs will fly high at Spruce Street Harbor Park all summer long.
For the third consecutive year, sixteen (16) selected artists will have large pennant flags printed and produced by the DRWC Waterfront Arts Program. These flags are hung as part of an outdoor exhibition in Spruce Street Harbor Park. DRWC covers all production costs; each recipient will receive a $300 honorarium.
The Waterfront Arts Program debuted its first site-specific flag exhibition, Commemorations, at Spruce Street Harbor Park in May 2024. Inspired by Ree Morton’s iconic 1975 installation, Something in the Wind, the show featured 16 artist-designed pennant flags celebrating people, places, and ideas worth remembering.
In Summer 2025, the second flag exhibition, States of Change, explored the ever-shifting energy of city life—capturing both subtle and powerful transformations through bold, dynamic flag designs. Each selected artist interpreted the theme in their own way, showcasing how art could reflect the spirit, resilience, and beauty of a constantly changing urban world.
"Commenorations" featured artists: Amy Boone-McCreesh, Jordan Buschur, Alex Ebstein, Austin Eddy, Kati Gegenheimer, Mark Gibson, James Heimer, Madeleine Herisson-Leplae, Duwenavue Santé Johnson, Alicia Link, Caitlin McCormack, Addison Namnoum, Brice Peterson, Gordon Stillman, Katharine Suchan, Keo Luu.
"States of Change" featured artists: Natessa Amin, Molly Burt Westvig, Anthony, Campuzano, Bruno Cançado, Amie Cunat, Nicolo Gentile, Dave Greber, Rachel Hsu, Sarah Leuchtner, Yutian Liu 刘雨田, Keith Micheal Murphy, Abbey Muza, Parker Phelps, Kamonchanok Phon-ngam, Alana Walters
