This summer, creativity is taking root along the Kennett Greenway—one banner, brushstroke, and yarn square at a time.

Art on the Greenway, an initiative led by the Kennett Trails Alliance, invites residents, artists, families, and community partners to take part in a vibrant series of hands-on art experiences designed to activate the Kennett Greenway as a shared space for expression, connection, and environmental stewardship.

Rooted in the belief that public spaces should reflect the people they serve, Art on the Greenway includes a range of collaborative projects—from yarn bombing and banner-making to a series of mini murals—all designed to celebrate local creativity, uplift diverse voices, and cultivate community pride.

To lead the Eco Mural Project, the Kennett Trails Alliance has partnered with Philadelphia-based muralist Kala Hagopian, who will host a community paint-by-number workshop during the Community Art Picnic at Anson B. Nixon Park on Saturday, July 26. The murals will feature local flora and fauna native to the area, with a focus on their ecological and medicinal significance. This intersection of art, nature, and storytelling is a powerful reflection of our shared environment— created by the community, for the community.  

“This is a great opportunity for members of our community to be involved in leaving their artistic mark on the Kennett Greenway,” said Natalia Santiago Vazquez, Director of Community Engagement and Programming. “I am incredibly excited to have a project that celebrates the creativity of our community.” 

The “Glow Up the Greenway” volunteer event took place on Saturday, July 12, where community members came together to help transform Cypress Beach Park, the Red Clay Trail, and the Anson B. Nixon Gateway into a living canvas of community expression. Volunteers installed hand-painted banners, hung string lights, and participated in light trail cleanup.

Community members also contributed knitted or crocheted squares (4”–12”) for a “Yarn Bombing” installation that brought Cypress Beach Park to life with vibrant color and texture. Crochet squares were collected at Cypress Beach Park on Saturday, July 12, and again on Saturday, July 19.

Upcoming Events & Activities Include:

  • A free, family-friendly “Community Art Picnic” will take place on Saturday, July 26, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Anson B. Nixon Park. Community members of all ages can add their brushstroke to the Wild Medicine: Eco Mural 23 project led by Philadelphia-based muralist Kala Hagopian, plus enjoy live music, food, a raffle, bike rodeo, games and more. 
  • The Art on the Greenway finale event on Friday, October 17th at The Creamery invites community members to step into an interactive art experience with the unveiling of the four Eco Mural panels, an aerialist, R+B singer, and live art models.

About the Kennett Trails Alliance

The Kennett Trails Alliance is a nonprofit organization working to create a more connected, active, and accessible Kennett through safe, sustainable trails and transportation solutions. In collaboration with residents, partners, and local leaders, the Kennett Trails Alliance is building a system of trails and shared spaces that support movement, equity, and community connection.

July 2, 2025—Students from The Garage Community and Youth Center lend a hand to Glow Up The Greenway by rolling up their sleeves to pull weeds, pick up litter, and add their creative touch to the space with hand-painted tables to brighten up the shared space.

May 13, 2025—Seniors at the Kennett Area Senior Center poured their creativity into making hand-painted banners that will be installed along the Kennett Greenway this summer.

April 26, 2025—Community members attending the Kennett Area YMCA Healthy Kids Day channeled their inner-Picasso to create hand-painted banners that will be installed along the Kennett  Greenway.