The City of Brotherly Love honors its fighters, not just in the ring but in life's various arenas. As RockyFest draws to a close, Philadelphians can still find inspiration on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where "Real Life Rockys" murals pay homage to local heroes until December 31, per the City of Philadelphia's announcement.
Created by Mural Arts Philadelphia's artist Ash Ryan, the series highlights four individuals who embody determination and resilience, like the fictional Rocky Balboa. The murals' portraits stand honoring Chantay Love, who, after the death of her brother to gun violence, founded Every Murder is Real (EMIR), a group combatting the same streets that took lives without asking; Jimmy Young, the formidable presence in the boxing world, inducted into the New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame; Michelle Konkoly who, after a crippling incident, swam her way to gold at the Paralympics; and Joshua Santiago, doorway to dignity, offering free haircuts to those grappling with homelessness or addiction.
The "Real Life Rockys" is more than an artistic exhibition—it reminds Philadelphians what they can achieve regardless of the challenges they face. Love, whose portrait stands among the murals, started EMIR out of personal tragedy and now leads the charge against the violence ravaging Philadelphia's communities. Konkoly turned a near-tragic accident into a triumphant comeback, not just as a competitive swimmer but as an inspiration for many facing physical adversities.
Young's mural serves as a physical testament to his legacy; he once squared off against the likes of Ali and Foreman, and now his likeness, captured in paint, inspires new generations to fight their good fight, and boxing enthusiasts recall his deft maneuvers in the ring each time they pass by while Santiago's project Empowering Cuts extends beyond appearances, it seeks to restore confidence and hope one haircut at a time, and his depiction cements his commitment to giving back, to those in need in a tangible and self-affirming way.
For those local or visiting, the murals offer a chance to engage with the city's narrative of grit and perseverance. To witness these pieces of living history and personal triumph, head to 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway before the year-end and see firsthand that heroes come in many forms.
