Phoenix AZ  July 22, 2016     Five local artists will be selected to transform the blank exterior wall of a building on a busy Phoenix thoroughfare into inspirational art as Tumbleweed Center for Youth Development launches the Wonderwall project.

The project seeks to identify artists who will convert five panels on the east- facing Phoenix Youth Resource Center into messages of “Hope, Strength and a Brighter Tomorrow” for the homeless youth who use Tumbleweed services.

The project is inspired by the Oasis song of the same name., whose lyrics include:

“Because maybe, you’re gonna be the one that saves me. And after all, you’re my wonderwall.”

Exterior of the building at 824 N. 24th Street shows blank panels awaiting inspirational art. 

“Each artist will be responsible for one panel,” said Tumbleweed Chief Executive Officer Cynthia Schuler. “There are actually 6 panels on the new Center at 428 N. 24th Street, but one will remain blank for future artists and to symbolize that the future always brings new approaches.”  Traffic experts estimate 105,000 vehicles pass the location each week.

The  Wonderwall will be unveiled during a ribbon cutting for the Youth Resource Center, scheduled for late September.

“The Wonderwall contest is open to all local artists,” Schuler says.  “An internal panel will select 10 finalists and we will post those entries to get public feedback,” she said.  “Tumbleweed’s internal decision will be final,” she added.

Artists can see details and enter their vision for consideration https://tumbleweedwonderwall.hscampaigns.com/

The entry deadline is August 26, 2016 at midnight.

The N. 24th Street facility was renovated by Tumbleweed in order to expand services and provide a better environment for youth, from new shower facilities to better lighting  It replaces a smaller Resource Center near 16th Street and McDowell Road.  Young people from teenagers to age 25 can sign in at the Center to receive food, clothing, laundry and shower faculties, internet access, pet care and the opportunity to meet with Tumbleweed staff to design comprehensive plans to transition away from homelessness.

Questions can be sent to http://wonderwall@tumbleweed.org