Hooray for Play

Hooray for Play by artist Serena Saunders is located at the Tustin Playground in the Overbrook neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The seed for this mural design at the playground began with “Where the Greats Play,” a beautiful starting point for this play space being tended to. The end result is almost as if the playground has bloomed right in front of us. Saunders’ design was inspired by her time growing up at the Rec Center. It is bright, colorful, and full of movement to inspire and mimic play. Focused on the interaction, community, and collaboration, the colors loop, soar, and sometimes even combine to make a brand-new hue. The mural strives to contribute the amazing energy and vibe that Tustin Playground has been to many generations of families, which is evident by how the once children are now adults and still very engaged and invested in the success of their community. The mural also pays homage to the history of great while focusing on the here and now and the greatness of the children the playground serves. A ribbon of text running through the mural reads: “We plant goodness and . . . grow greatness.”