“Space is the place,” Sun Ra would often say. Here at the Sun Ra Mosaic, we celebrate that vision.
This mosaic is more than just art. It is a tribute to a cosmic jazz legend. Sun Ra found a home in Philadelphia.
Josey Stamm created this mosaic in 2000. It stands proudly at the north end of Vernon Park. Look around you. Notice the vibrant colors and abstract symbols. See the depictions of Sun Ra himself.
Sun Ra was born Herman Poole Blount. He was a pianist, composer, and philosopher. Some say he was from Saturn. In Philadelphia, Sun Ra’s Arkestra became part of the city’s soul. They moved here in 1968.
Philadelphia wasn’t always easy. Sun Ra called it “death’s headquarters.” But he found a community here. He mentored young artists. He spread his message of cosmic awareness. The Sun Ra Mosaic captures this spirit. It shows big partial people. It also shows musical instruments. Don’t miss the headgear. Look for the sun and Saturn. These symbols are key to Sun Ra’s philosophy.
Sun Ra believed in Afrofuturism. This is a movement linking Black experiences with space and ancient Egypt. His music was experimental. He used synthesizers and electric instruments. The Arkestra’s home on Morton Street became a hub. It was a commune where everyone had a skill.
They sewed their own costumes. They even pressed their own records. Imagine that. They manufactured about 500,000 records.
Sun Ra’s influence spread throughout Philadelphia. The Arkestra played at Temple University. They played at Geno’s Empty Foxhole. They even had a grocery store called Pharoah’s Den. The store sold records and fresh produce. It was a place to teach kids about space.
King Britt remembers Sun Ra as a superhero. Capes, glitter and otherworldly sounds inspired him.
After Sun Ra’s death in 1993, his legacy continued. The Arkestra still tours under Marshall Allen. Allen carries on Sun Ra’s tradition. The Sun Ra Mosaic reminds us of this legacy. It reminds us of Sun Ra’s connection to Philadelphia. It celebrates his unique vision.
So, take a moment to appreciate this artwork. Let the Sun Ra Mosaic inspire you. Think about space. Think about music. Think about the possibilities. Remember, space is the place.