Title: Amplify
- Creator: Benjamin Volta, Photo by Steve Weinik
- Date Created: 2014-01-05
- Location Created: Philadelphia, PA
- Location: Philadelphia, PA
- External Link: Mural Arts Program
Unveiling the Harmonic Tapestry: Benjamin Volta’s Sonic Exploration
Background: Benjamin Volta’s Artistic Odyssey
Benjamin Volta, a luminary in the realm of contemporary street art, unfurls his artistic brilliance through the mural titled “Amplify.” Crafted on January 5, 2014, in the heart of Philadelphia, this mural stands as a testament to Volta’s ability to fuse architectural nuances with the essence of sound and voice amplification.
Inspiration in Architecture: Union Transfer’s Sonic Gateway
The genesis of “Amplify” lies in the exploration of Union Transfer’s architecture and the vibrant neighborhood that envelopes it. Volta, in collaboration with The Restorative Justice GUILD members, embarked on a journey to delve into the properties of music, sounds, and the amplification of voice. The ornate interior of the venue became the canvas for their interpretative musings.
An Ornamental Odyssey: The Restorative Justice GUILD’s Contribution
Guided by a profound appreciation for ornamentation, The Restorative Justice GUILD members reinterpreted, blended, and expanded the venue’s interior ornamentation through drawing. Armed with hundreds of photographs capturing the intricacies of Union Transfer, they meticulously drew over the images, weaving a unique design that paid homage to the venue’s rich tapestry.
From Drawings to Harmony: The Birth of the Gramophone Horn
The design evolution led to a captivating outcome—the amalgamation of all drawings into a grand gramophone horn. Each drawing encapsulated exploratory and decorative elements, with some bearing embedded meanings. Notably, an abstract portrait with a muzzled face positioned alongside the gramophone needle symbolizes silence, while ornamental interpretations of a raised fist and a black beetle add layers of symbolism.
Energy Unleashed: Window Segments as Portals to Positivity
The mural’s intensity transcends through the window segments, serving as portals to the positive energy encapsulated within. The intricate designs, woven with care and intention, transform Union Transfer into a sonic haven, where art, architecture, and music converge.
Conclusion: “Amplify” as a Sonic Tapestry of Expression
“Amplify” stands not just as a mural but as a sonic tapestry of expression, a collaboration between Benjamin Volta and The Restorative Justice GUILD that breathes life into Union Transfer. Through ornate designs, symbolic motifs, and a harmonious integration of architecture and art, this mural amplifies the soul of the venue and echoes the vibrancy of Philadelphia’s artistic landscape.
I am a mural enthusiast and a fervent admirer of street art. Rather than creating murals myself, I am passionate about collecting them. My love for street art knows no bounds. I am dedicated to curating and cherishing these artworks that grace the streets. My collection stands as a testament to my profound appreciation for this form of artistic expression.
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