Magic Gardens

Magic Gardens

The old adage that one man's trash is another man's treasure is not merely a cliché, but is evident in the work of award-winning mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar, founder of Philadelphia's Magic Gardens. For over 14 years, Zagar worked tirelessly to build the enormous indoor and outdoor sculpture called the Magic Gardens. Taking up half a city block, the Magic Gardens is a labyrinth comprised entirely of recycled materials, including bicycle wheels, glass bottles, shards of mirrors, and other mini sculptures, all cemented together to form one huge sculpture.

Zagar and his unique artistic style have helped spur the renaissance of South Street from the 1960s until today, one tile at a time. Over 90 walls throughout the city of Philadelphia feature mosaic murals tiled by Zagar. He also has permanent collections in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, D.C.

But his most notable creation is Philadelphia's Magic Gardens. Did you ever think bicycle wheels could be used for something other than their intended purpose? Viewing these materials – aka garbage -- as art shines a new light on products we utilize every day.

Philadelphia's Magic Gardens offers two tours: weekend walking tours or site tours. Site tours are for groups of 10 or more and must be booked in advance. Ticket price varies depending on the number in your party. The weekend walking tour is offered only during summer months. Tours are led by staff -- or if you're lucky, by Zagar himself -- and offer a glimpse into Zagar's inspiration which has driven him to create one-of-a-kind artwork for over four decades.

- Andrew Skwarek