The "Loveamede" mural, painted by artist Drayton Mapp, represents a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of Runnemede, drawing inspiration from the poetic expressions of the town's youth. The mural takes its name from "Loveamede," a symbolic and creative fusion of "love" and "Runnemede," encapsulating the affection and pride felt by the residents, particularly the young student, Dario Ciarrocchi who participated in the "Why I Love Runnemede" poetry contest. The contest was a collaborative effort between the Borough of Runnemede, Mary E. Volz Middle School, Reimagine Runnemede, and the Society for Poets of Southern NJ, giving students an outlet to express their deep connection to their hometown.
Visually, the mural's vibrant design features patriotic waves of red, white, and blue, symbolizing both the unity of the community and its connection to broader American values of freedom, safety, and togetherness. The swirling, whimsical font of the word "Loveamede," along with the gold stars, evokes a sense of playfulness and youthful creativity, mirroring the tone of the students' poetry. The gold stars also hint at the pride residents take in their local heroes, such as their teachers, police officers, firefighters, and community leaders, who were often mentioned in the contest entries as symbols of strength and safety.
While this mural is a temporary installation, its importance is undeniable. It stands as a momentary yet impactful expression of the town’s artistic growth and cultural engagement, representing how even transient art can foster pride and connectivity. Temporary art, like this mural, captures a particular moment in a town’s evolution, reminding the community of its values and inspiring future creative initiatives. The fact that this mural won’t last forever symbolizes the ever-changing, ever-growing nature of Runnemede itself—a town that values its past, embraces its present, and looks forward to a vibrant future.
Though the mural may eventually fade, the message it carries will endure: Runnemede is a town worth celebrating, and the love its residents feel for their home, as expressed through art and poetry, is timeless
Visually, the mural's vibrant design features patriotic waves of red, white, and blue, symbolizing both the unity of the community and its connection to broader American values of freedom, safety, and togetherness. The swirling, whimsical font of the word "Loveamede," along with the gold stars, evokes a sense of playfulness and youthful creativity, mirroring the tone of the students' poetry. The gold stars also hint at the pride residents take in their local heroes, such as their teachers, police officers, firefighters, and community leaders, who were often mentioned in the contest entries as symbols of strength and safety.
While this mural is a temporary installation, its importance is undeniable. It stands as a momentary yet impactful expression of the town’s artistic growth and cultural engagement, representing how even transient art can foster pride and connectivity. Temporary art, like this mural, captures a particular moment in a town’s evolution, reminding the community of its values and inspiring future creative initiatives. The fact that this mural won’t last forever symbolizes the ever-changing, ever-growing nature of Runnemede itself—a town that values its past, embraces its present, and looks forward to a vibrant future.
Though the mural may eventually fade, the message it carries will endure: Runnemede is a town worth celebrating, and the love its residents feel for their home, as expressed through art and poetry, is timeless
11/2/24 Tour Secret Word Easter Egg: Love |
As a fundraiser for Reimagine Runnemede, we are offering the mugs from our mural collection as a gift with donation of $15 or more. There are 9 murals, 9 mugs; and the collage mug or the "festival" mug. Collect them all! You can also make a donation of $120 to receive all 10 mugs. This offer is available for a limited time until the end of the year. They can be ordered now until Nov 22nd for pick up at the December mural celebration event (date TBD). These mugs make great gifts! |