West Portal Playground
131 Lenox Way
A $1.5 million renovation project in 2005 saw the West Portal Park’s original clubhouse expanded and upgraded. The park includes a picnic area, playground and large play field. The building also features artwork commissioned by the San Francisco Arts Commission Public Art Program.
“The Secret Garden,” a series of hand-carved tiles by artist Aileen Barr, depicts various flora and fauna native to the area, including leaves, flowers, plants, insects and birds.
Aileen has tile work in many places throughout San Francisco. Aileen Barr studied Ceramic Design at the National College of Art and Design In Dublin, Ireland, graduating in 1985. She worked in New York for a number of years and it was here that she discovered her fascination with handmade tile.
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A public art program is not something we have in our very small city, which is too bad.
nice looking building , love the tile accents!
The use of decorative tiles is common in Europe. I think they are very attractive and add much to the structure of a building. These are beautiful and I love the theme of flora and fauna native to the area. Kudos to Ms. Barr!
These are in such lovely tones. It is wonderful to see hand-made tiles included in this type of project!