Philadelphia

Magic Gardens Artist Isaiah Zagar Celebrates 80th Birthday

Isaiah Zagar, who turned 80 on Monday, has been creating mosaics for the South Street community in Philadelphia for more than 50 years.

One special piece of art you can not miss in South Philadelphia, is Magic Gardens. The man behind the creation of this piece of art turned 80 today. NBC10 was there for the festivities and has the story on how this vacant lot became one of the most eye-catching places in the city of Brotherly Love.

It’s hard to miss the colorful bottles, tiles and glass of the Magic Gardens when you’re walking down South Street.

Isaiah Zagar, the creator of the iconic mosaic art environment, turned 80 on Monday -- and the Gardens made sure to celebrate the big milestone.

Dozens of friends and art enthusiasts showed up at the birthday bash to celebrate and enjoy cake with Zagar including Golden Sunrise NYA Captain Michael Carwile, who was dressed in his spectacular mosaicked Mummer’s costume.

The Magic Gardens also raffled off an original mosaic created by Zagar to one attendee.

The Magic Gardens of South Street have been a beloved spot for Philadelphians since the 90s when Zagar created his installation.

He has been creating art installations in Philadelphia for more than 50 years and transformed 200 public walls throughout the city.

His unique mosaic creations often included different objects like tires, glass bottles, bikes and colored glass.

His mosaics helped the art community thrive in South Street and his supporters continue to regard him as a legend.

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