SAN FRANCISCO, CA – A fresh burst of color and creativity landed at Jackson Playground in Potrero Hill today, as a new temporary basketball court mural transformed the space into a celebration of art and community. Installed on the eve of NBA All-Star Weekend, the mural is the result of a collaboration between the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department, artist Victor Solomon, and Courtside Foundation. This dynamic public art installation reflects the city’s deep-rooted love for basketball while enhancing the court for local players of all ages.
“As San Francisco hosts NBA All-Star Weekend, we’re thrilled to celebrate our city’s deep love for basketball through this incredible local project,” said Mayor Daniel Lurie. “By revitalizing the outdoor court at Jackson Playground in partnership with Victor Solomon and the Courtside Foundation, we’re creating a vibrant, welcoming space where the community can come together to play, create, and connect.”
“This project is a huge win for the Potrero Hill community,” said Supervisor Shamann Walton. “Jackson Playground has long been a cherished gathering space and this vibrant mural makes the start of an exciting transformation. We are investing in the spirit of our neighborhoods and I look forward to seeing continued revitalization of our public spaces and the lasting impact this project will have on our community.”
The mural, inspired by the colors of the San Francisco Bay, features overlapping and contrasting circles designed to reflect movement and vibrancy. The project was made possible through a generous in-kind donation from Courtside Foundation, valued at $50,000.
The mural and newly refinished playing surface will serve the community until 2027, when construction is slated to begin on a full-scale renovation of the park. Planned improvements include repositioning sports fields for greater efficiency, adding a new playground and dog play area, and relocating the historic clubhouse while expanding its amenities to better serve the community.
“San Francisco is a basketball city. Our more than 100 public courts are where friendships are formed, skills are honed, and future stars take their first shots,” said Phil Ginsburg, general manager of San Francisco Recreation and Park Department. “This mural is a slam dunk for Jackson Playground and the neighborhood it serves. We are grateful to Victor Solomon and the Courtside Foundation for this meaningful contribution.”
Solomon, known for blending basketball with art, design, and luxury, has worked with major brands like Nike, Levi’s, and the NBA. His work on NBA trophies and public art installations has made him a key figure in celebrating basketball culture through artistic expression.
“Basketball has the power to transform spaces and bring people together,” said Victor Solomon. “With this mural, we wanted to create a dynamic visual experience that honors the game and the community that loves it. It’s an honor to be part of this project and see Jackson Playground become an even more vibrant gathering place.”
The event also highlighted the ongoing work of the Friends of Jackson Park (FoJP), a dedicated 501(c)(3) community group that has worked closely with the City since 2014 to reimagine the park.
“This mural is a preview of the incredible transformation coming to Jackson Playground,” said Jude Deckenbach, executive director of Friends of Jackson Park. “Our community’s tireless dedication is driving an extraordinary renovation and today is a celebration of what’s to come.”
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Group photo IDs: (L to R) FoJP Executive Director Jude Friedenbach, FoJP Board President Elain Sprague Stuebe, Supervisor Shamann Walton, Mayor Daniel Lurie, Rec and Park General Manager Phil Ginsburg, Rec and Park Commission President Kat Anderson, Artist Victor Solomon