Imagine stepping into a piece of art. That’s the experience Sharmistha Ray offers at the new Arts Landing in Pittsburgh. The artist has turned pickleball courts into a canvas, creating a stunning geometric mural that’s as playable as it is visually arresting.
The Colorful Intersection of Art and Sport
Dubbed “Geometry of Play,” this installation isn’t just for the eyes. It’s Pittsburgh’s inaugural artist-designed pickleball courts, part of seven public art pieces at Arts Landing, orchestrated by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. The court’s lines evolve into an abstract tableau, drawing inspiration from historic board games.
The design pays homage to games like Pachisi, integrating interlocking shapes and vibrant hues across the ROYGBIV spectrum, symbolizing inclusion. As players weave through, they animate the artwork, creating an ever-changing tapestry of visual relationships.
A Space for Community and Culture
With every game, “Geometry of Play” transforms, reflecting pickleball’s social essence and converting the space into a shared community hub. Ray, known for blending painting, installation, and public art, utilizes South Asian motifs to delve into identity and cultural narrative through geometric abstraction.
Ray has impressed with installations like her work at Grand Central Terminal and a commission for Pittsburgh International Airport’s new terminal. Her recent projects include animated works featuring an original score by Grammy Award-winning musician Arooj Aftab.
Field Operations spearheaded the $31 million Arts Landing project, merging art, performance, and local engagement in Pittsburgh’s Cultural District. Besides Ray’s work, notable contributions from artists like Vanessa German and Thaddeus Mosley enrich the space, with all pieces slated to remain on display for at least one year.
Experience more innovative public art installations with Saype’s massive ground mural that highlights community and unity through breathtaking scale.
Visit Arts Landing, open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and become part of the art in this vibrant public setting.
Source: design-milk.com
Frequently asked questions
What art installation did Sharmistha Ray create?
Sharmistha Ray created ‘Geometry of Play,’ a geometric mural on pickleball courts at Arts Landing in Pittsburgh.
How does the ‘Geometry of Play’ installation reflect pickleball’s nature?
The ‘Geometry of Play’ installation transforms with every game, reflecting pickleball’s social essence and converting the space into a shared community hub.
Where can the ‘Geometry of Play’ be found?
The ‘Geometry of Play’ can be found at Arts Landing in Pittsburgh’s Cultural District.