Magic Gardens is an iconic art installation located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Created by artist Isaiah Zagar, it is an immersive and whimsical mosaic garden that covers half a city block. The artist spent 14 years constructing this masterpiece, using various materials such as glass, tiles, mirrors, and found objects. The Magic Gardens are not simply a work of art, but also a testament to the power of community involvement. Zagar transformed the neglected and vacant lots into a vibrant and creative space that reflects the spirit of the neighborhood. He enlisted the help of local residents and volunteers in the creation of this unique mosaic environment.
"Young children are wired to discover and figure things out," said Tovah P. Klein, director of Barnard College Center for Toddler Development and author of "How Toddlers Thrive." "This is what we call curiosity and it is what drives them to want to engage with toys or other materials. STEM toys fit here. Any toy or game that gives them the opportunity to figure something out, such as puzzles, building sets, magnets or materials that support discovery such as science kits (let's make a volcano), will support these desires."
When picking out a toy for kids, you obviously hope that whatever you get will provide plenty of fun and keep them occupied for at least a few hours. Any toy or game that gives them the opportunity to figure something out, such as puzzles, building sets, magnets or materials that support discovery such as science kits let s make a volcano , will support these desires.
He enlisted the help of local residents and volunteers in the creation of this unique mosaic environment. The Magic Gardens consist of both indoor and outdoor spaces, with intricate mosaics covering every surface. Walking through the winding pathways, visitors are transported to a magical world of color and texture.
These STEM toys help children learn through hands-on play, starting at $8
When picking out a toy for kids, you obviously hope that whatever you get will provide plenty of fun and keep them occupied for at least a few hours. But it's always a major bonus when a toy does both of those things and also helps them learn.
"Young children are wired to discover and figure things out," said Tovah P. Klein, director of Barnard College Center for Toddler Development and author of "How Toddlers Thrive." "This is what we call curiosity and it is what drives them to want to engage with toys or other materials. STEM toys fit here. Any toy or game that gives them the opportunity to figure something out, such as puzzles, building sets, magnets or materials that support discovery such as science kits (let's make a volcano), will support these desires."
Enter, STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) toys. From rocket launchers to robot-building kits, STEM-focused toys can help teach kids valuable science and math skills — and most of the time they have so much fun with them, they don't even realize they're learning!
The walls are adorned with intricate patterns and whimsical figures, each telling a different story. The garden also features a labyrinth, which adds an element of wonder and exploration. Visitors can lose themselves in the labyrinth, discovering hidden nooks and crannies along the way. It is a place of solace and reflection, where one can escape the bustling city and find inner peace. Beyond its artistic beauty, the Magic Gardens serve as a cultural hub for the community. It hosts events and workshops, showcasing the work of local artists and providing a platform for creative expression. The space has become a symbol of unity and resilience, bringing people together through art. The Magic Gardens is not only an attraction for tourists, but also a source of pride for the people of Philadelphia. It is a must-visit destination for art lovers, providing a unique and immersive experience. The gardens are a living testament to the transformative power of art and community, a place where magic truly comes to life..
Reviews for "UPenn's Secret Garden: A place of beauty and mystery"
- Sarah Thompson - 1 star - I was really disappointed with my visit to Magic Gardens. I had heard so much hype about it, but when I got there, I found it to be extremely underwhelming. The whole place was crowded with tourists, so it was difficult to appreciate the art. Additionally, the admission fee was quite steep for what you actually get to see. The mosaic work was not as impressive as I expected, and I felt like I had seen similar artwork done much better in other places. Overall, I would not recommend spending your money or time on visiting Magic Gardens.
- John Smith - 2 stars - As an art enthusiast, I was really looking forward to visiting Magic Gardens, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The installation was messy and disorganized, lacking a clear vision or theme. The use of broken glass and other materials seemed haphazard and random, and it didn't translate into a cohesive artistic experience. The whole place felt cluttered and overwhelming. It also didn't help that the staff were not very knowledgeable or helpful in answering questions about the artwork. I believe there are much more interesting and well-curated art spaces in the city to explore.
- Emily Davis - 2 stars - I had high hopes for Magic Gardens, but unfortunately, it didn't live up to the hype. The installation felt more like a tourist trap than a true art experience. The whole place was overly crowded, making it difficult to fully appreciate the artwork or take nice pictures without people constantly in the frame. The design of the garden itself was chaotic and didn't flow well, leading to a confusing and overwhelming visit. I would recommend skipping Magic Gardens and exploring other, more authentic art venues in the city instead.