so, i was roaming the south street neighborhood of philadelphia with some friends this past weekend, and i thankfully stumbled upon one of the best displays of community beautification i have ever laid eyes on. i have always been obsessed with cities, landscapes, architecture, and the integration of art within communities. so in my own little world, i was standing there as indiana jones would upon his latest find. no, i am not being dramatic. i'm just weird. it's the simple things. philadelphia's magic gardens is a folk art environment and gallery space that shows the brilliant mosaic work of mr. isaiah zagar. i encourage you to read more about his devotion to the south street neighborhood on the website. essentially, zagar began revitalizing the area in the 60's, with the help of his wife, by creating an indoor gallery and gigantic outdoor labyrinthine from objects (bottles, bicycles, umbrellas, mirrors, mom's pearls, grandpa's dentures- not really...well, maybe, i don't know...but you get the point) and recycled material found on the streets of the neighborhood. there are tributes, and tours, and tunnels, and grottos galore! unfortunately, i only got to spend a few moments staring through the gates, eyes wide open, and jaw dropped....m-e-s-m-e-r-i-z-e-d. like all enticing treats, this artwork left me wanting more. i cannot wait to go back and explore!
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