Mosaic Artist Isaiah Zagar Dies at 86

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Renowned mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar, known for his vibrant and intricate mosaic murals throughout Philadelphia, has passed away at the age of 86. Zagar created over 50,000 square feet of mosaic work in Philadelphia and Latin America, often incorporating found objects like mirror shards, crockery, and bicycle wheels into his signature style. He founded the Magic Gardens nonprofit, which owns his celebrated 3,000-square-foot museum, gallery, and sculpture garden in Philadelphia.

Why it matters

Zagar's mosaic murals were a beloved part of Philadelphia's cultural landscape, transforming ordinary walls and spaces into whimsical, kaleidoscopic works of art. His death marks the end of an era for the city's vibrant public art scene, which he helped shape over the course of his decades-long career.

The details

Isaiah Zagar began creating his distinctive mosaic murals in the 1960s, covering surfaces throughout Philadelphia with his signature style. His works often featured portraits of himself and his wife Julia, as well as a wide array of found objects and recycled materials. In 2002, Zagar founded the Magic Gardens nonprofit to preserve and showcase his life's work, which includes a 3,000-square-foot museum, gallery, and sculpture garden.

• Isaiah Zagar began creating mosaic murals in Philadelphia in the 1960s.
• Zagar founded the Magic Gardens nonprofit in 2002.