The County of Bucks recently unveiled a new mural titled “Bucks County: Rooted in Peace, Justice and Community” inside the County Administration Building in Doylestown.
Located on the building’s first floor, the colorful work of public art celebrates Bucks County’s commitment to fairness and justice throughout history and into the present day.
“It is art that really shows us who we are and shows us who we can be,” said Commissioner Chair Bob Harvie. “It is art that reveals so much of who we are as a people, as a country, as a society – and we see that here.”
The mural was created and installed by Philadelphia-based artist Kala Hagopian and her team at Hagopian Arts, said media spokesperson, James O’Malley.
Hagopian’s team worked collaboratively with local police officers, human services co-responders, social workers, probation officers and community members who contributed to painting while strengthening their relationships during three community painting events, said O’Malley.
Officials said the finished piece is composed of images serving as symbols of Bucks County. These symbols include:
- A portrait of Pearl S. Buck, the humanitarian author who called Bucks County home
- Harriet Tubman, who led enslaved people to freedom on the Underground Railroad on which Bucks County was a key stop
- A tranquil scene on the Delaware River
- Children interacting with local police
Click here to learn more about the components of the mural and their meanings.
“I’m really grateful that you trusted me with this vision, and being able to express your community values and really paint a picture, literally, of Bucks County and connection between all facets of the people who live here and come into this building,” Hagopian said.
The mural, according to authorities, was paid for at a cost of $29,000 through a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice with the support of the Bucks County Commissioners, the Division of Human Services, the District Attorney’s Office and the Bucks County Police Chiefs Association.
Click here for more details and photos.