Remembering Philadelphia Artist Isaiah Zagar's Vibrant Legacy

Celebrate the late artist's iconic mosaic murals across the city

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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News of renowned Philadelphia artist Isaiah Zagar's passing at age 86 has prompted a citywide celebration of his vibrant legacy. Zagar, known for his colorful mosaic murals that dot the city's landscape, was a beloved figure who collaborated with local artists and community members to create his unique works of public art.

Why it matters

Zagar's murals have become an integral part of Philadelphia's cultural identity, transforming neighborhoods and bringing joy to residents and visitors alike. His death marks the end of an era, but his artworks will continue to inspire and delight for generations to come.

The details

Over the course of his decades-long career, Zagar created hundreds of mosaic murals across Philadelphia, using a wide range of recycled materials and found objects. His most famous work is the Philadelphia Magic Gardens, a sprawling, immersive art environment that he spent over 14 years building. Other notable Zagar murals can be found on the facades of buildings, in community gardens, and even inside local businesses like the iconic Jim's Steaks.

  • Isaiah Zagar passed away on February 16, 2026 at the age of 86.
  • Zagar began creating his first mosaic murals in Philadelphia in the 1960s.
  • The Philadelphia Magic Gardens, Zagar's most famous work, was completed in 2008 after over 14 years of construction.

The players

Isaiah Zagar

A renowned Philadelphia artist known for his vibrant, mosaic-covered public artworks that have become iconic landmarks across the city.

Emily Smith

The executive director of the Philadelphia Magic Gardens, a nonprofit organization that preserves and promotes Zagar's art.

Julia Zagar

Isaiah Zagar's wife and partner, who owns the Eyes Gallery on South Street, which features many of the artist's mosaics.

Daniel Ascher

The son of Carlos Asher and owner of Carlos Carpets, who commissioned Zagar to decorate the facade of his family's building without his father's knowledge.

Mike Matteo

A local plumber whose portrait and family are featured in one of Zagar's large-scale murals.

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What they’re saying

“Isaiah was more than our founder; he was our close friend, teacher, collaborator, and creative inspiration. He was unlike anyone we have ever met and will ever meet. Above all things, he was an artist.”

— Emily Smith, Executive Director, Philadelphia Magic Gardens (Instagram)

“One of Isaiah's greatest joys was collaborating with other artists, specifically with folk artists and other art environment creators around the world.”

— Emily Smith, Executive Director, Philadelphia Magic Gardens (Instagram)

What’s next

The Philadelphia Magic Gardens, which Zagar founded, will be hosting a series of events and exhibitions throughout 2026 to celebrate the artist's life and legacy. The organization is also working to preserve and maintain Zagar's other public artworks across the city.

The takeaway

Isaiah Zagar's vibrant, community-driven mosaic murals have become an integral part of Philadelphia's cultural identity. His passing marks the end of an era, but his artworks will continue to inspire and delight residents and visitors for generations to come, serving as a testament to the power of public art to transform and unite a city.