Officially Approved: Armenian Heritage Walk Receives Final Green Light from Philadelphia Art Commission

On November 8, 2023, the proposal for landscape improvements and the full restoration of the Young Meher statue received final approval from the Philadelphia Art Commission, marking a critical milestone in bringing this long-envisioned public project to life.

The unanimous approval of the plan—endorsed by the Philadelphia Museum of Art (PMA), Philadelphia Parks and Recreation (PPR), the Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy (OACCE) and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS), includes significant upgrades to the grounds at 2500 Spring Garden Street, just outside the north entrance of the PMA. The project scope includes:

• New paved paths for accessibility and flow

• Site lighting for safety and ambiance

• Thoughtful new plantings to enrich the green space

• The full conservation and restoration of the Young Meher statue, including its relocation approximately 25 feet from its original site to a more prominent position within the new layout
  

As part of the approval process, the Commission also requested that existing drainage be tested prior to installation and recommended additional trash receptacles to enhance the visitor experience. The newly approved plan lays the foundation for additional new pieces of public art that will honor unique characteristics of Armenian Heritage.

More Than a Renovation, its a A Revival

The Armenian Heritage Walk is more than a landscape improvement project. It is a cultural statement, a public art preservation effort, and a tribute to Armenian heritage in the heart of Philadelphia’s museum district.

By restoring the iconic Young Meher statue and creating a thoughtfully designed setting around it, this project honors the work of Armenian-American artist Khoren Der Harootian and elevates his sculpture within a context that reflects the strength, resilience, and contributions of the Armenian community.

This final approval is a testament to the Foundation’s careful planning, collaborative engagement with the City, and dedication to honoring both artistic and civic standards.

What’s Next?

While Phase 1 focuses on restoration and site improvements, Phase 2 will introduce new artwork that will undergo a separate conceptual review by the Art Commission in the future. As the project continues to unfold, we will share updates and ways for the community to get involved.

We are grateful to the Art Commission, our partner institutions, and our many supporters for helping us bring the Armenian Heritage Walk to life—step by step.