Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, the iconic mosaic‑filled venue on South Street, opened its doors this week to a new exhibition by Mexican artist Ivette Chaires. The show features a collection of papier‑mâché figures that explore the themes of life, death, and remembrance, drawing directly from the traditions of Mexico’s Day of the Dead.
Artist background and inspiration
Chaires, who hails from Puebla, Mexico, was awarded a residency at the Magic Gardens earlier this year. During her time in the city, she immersed herself in the garden’s vibrant mosaic environment and used the experience to create a series of sculptures that blend Mexican cultural motifs with the distinctive aesthetic of the Gardens.
Connection to Isaiah Zagar
The exhibition also serves as a tribute to Isaiah Zagar, the founding artist of the Magic Gardens who passed away earlier this year. Chelsey Luster, the exhibition manager, explained that the show “reminds us that life doesn’t end when we pass… as long as we create something that we can share with others.” The pieces include likenesses of Zagar at work, celebrating his lasting impact on the space.
Family and community perspective
Julia Zagar, a board member and Isaiah’s surviving wife, described the works as a gentle invitation to view death not as something solely negative, but as a natural part of the human experience. “Death is not necessarily something to think of as bad. It’s something to be experienced and involve yourself in,” she said, noting that Chaires’ figures convey that message effectively.
Visiting details
The exhibition is open to the public through November 8. Admission follows the standard Magic Gardens pricing, and visitors are encouraged to explore the garden’s permanent installations alongside Chaires’ temporary works. For additional information, patrons can visit the Magic Gardens website or view the promotional video linked on the venue’s social media channels.
Why the show matters locally
Beyond its artistic merit, the exhibition highlights Philadelphia’s commitment to cultural exchange and the celebration of diverse traditions. By hosting an artist whose work is rooted in Mexican heritage, the Magic Gardens reinforces its role as a community hub where global perspectives intersect with local creativity.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
