What does it mean to be a community hero?
Sometimes, it looks like a man in a white Ford Explorer making sure every kid gets to their basketball game. Sometimes, it’s the person who quietly makes sure someone eats before practice. For North Philadelphia, that hero was Paul “Unk P” Gripper—and now his legacy lives on, larger than life, in the form of a bold, comic-book-inspired mural on Ridge Avenue.
At Creative Repute, we were deeply honored to contribute to this tribute through the artistic vision of our founder and CEO, Nile Livingston, who designed the mural in partnership with Mural Arts Philadelphia. The result is a vibrant, deeply symbolic public artwork that not only captures Paul’s personality, but invites the community to continue what he started: showing up with love, humor, and purpose.
A Design Rooted in Listening
The design process began not with sketches, but with conversations. Nile met with Paul’s children—Ashley, Joey, and Paul’ sister Naima Gripper—and other loved ones to understand who Paul was beyond the surface. From these stories, a theme emerged: Paul wasn’t just admired—he was deeply relatable. A charismatic neighbor, a protective father, a no-nonsense coach, and a true “Unk” to so many.
Inspired by Paul’s larger-than-life spirit, Nile designed the mural as if it were the cover of a comic book. It’s full of color and symbolism—from the trophy and children in his hands, to the artwork of his late ex-wife Dawn Gripper in the halo above him. The balloon-style letters spelling “UNK P” float upward, just like the ones seen in photos from his memorial. A quote from Paul anchors the mural:
“If the kids call you Unk or OG, it’s your job to keep them from making bad decisions.”
Built with the Community
This wasn’t just a mural about community—it was made with community. Over 1,000 neighbors signed a petition supporting the project. A Community Paint Day invited folks to take part in the creative process, and during the dedication ceremony, paint markers were handed out so attendees could sign their names into the silhouettes at the mural’s base—marking the moment with ink, love, and legacy.
The mural was produced using the parachute cloth method and installed with Nova Gel adhesive for a seamless, weather-resistant finish.
A Collective Moment of Joy and Grief
At the unveiling on July 27, 2025, confetti filled the air as friends, family, and elected officials—including Councilmembers Isaiah Thomas and Jeffery “Jay” Young, Jr.—gathered to reflect on what Paul meant to North Philly.
Ashley Gripper, founder of Land Based Jawns, shared powerful words about her father’s final years, describing him as increasingly gentle and devoted. She also spoke honestly about the systemic racism, ableism, and medical neglect that contributed to his death, calling attention to the broader societal conditions that shape Black health and family grief.
The Power of Local Legends
Murals have long helped tell Philadelphia’s story—but few capture the intimate, everyday heroism that the Unk P mural brings to the foreground. It doesn’t just honor a life; it affirms a value system. It tells young people: you’re not alone, you matter, and someone like you can—and should—be celebrated.
To us at Creative Repute, this project reinforced why public art matters. It sparks dialogue. It heals. And it turns a city wall into a place of pride, remembrance, and radical visibility.
Visit the Mural
📍 2600 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
🖌️ Design: Nile Livingston
📷 Photography: Arekusn Nguyen
If you’re ever nearby, take a moment to stop, look up, and read the names at the bottom. Those aren’t just signatures. They’re living proof that Unk P’s impact isn’t over. It’s multiplying.
Interested in working with Creative Repute on a public art project?
We’d love to help bring your vision to life. Contact us at sales@creativerepute.com or learn more about our mural services here.