Philadelphia street artist honors community with Clones of Illadelph series

Sean 9 Lugo, a street artist in Philadelphia, is known for his "Clones of Illadelph" series, which features lifesize portraits of notable Philadelphians with animal heads. His recent work pays tribute to the late street artist "As Above So Below" on a vacant University of the Arts building. The University of the Arts closed in June 2024, contributing to a decline in Philadelphia's arts scene. Lugo's art aims to celebrate community and inspire others, reflecting his personal journey and struggles with mental health. He emphasizes the importance of creating meaningful art that connects with the public. Lugo's process involves hand-painting large images and installing them in public spaces. He collaborates with local artists and organizations, such as Pheed Philly, to address social issues like homelessness. His work fosters community engagement and highlights the transient nature of street art.