DEWITT PLAYGROUND
BOSTON,MA
Public Art and Renovation Project
Completion: 2025
Project Overview
Studio Luz Architects and Boston-based artist Marlon Forrester collaborated on the P.L.A.Y. (Play, Learn, Athletic, Youth) project at Roxbury’s Dewitt Playground. This revitalized, inclusive space fosters intergenerational engagement, celebrates heritage, and promotes health and wellness. The centerpiece mural fence honors Roxbury’s history and culture, transforming the playground into a vibrant community hub that bridges past and present.
Project Team
Hansy Better Barraza
Anthony Piermarini
Jae Hoon (Jason) Jang
Paul Dahlke
Joshua Ssebuwufu
Elise Zilius
Jichen Zhou
Sarah Pumphrey
Collaborating Artist
Marlon Forrester
Client
Boston Arts Commission
Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture
Municipality
Boston
Photographer
Jane Messinger
Videographer
Jonathan Oliver
design for reconnection
fostering unity and engagement
The Dewitt Playground revitalization reimagines a shared public space to bring Roxbury residents and visitors together. Combining art, thoughtful design, and community, the project strengthens local ties while offering opportunities for intergenerational connection. The project establishes a space where all can gather, play, learn and grow.
honoring heritage
linking the future to the past
Rooted in Roxbury’s cultural and historical identity, the project celebrates the neighborhood’s legacy while looking toward its future. The installations preserve stories of resilience and leadership, and Black excellence. This approach activates the site as a space to celebrate culture and history, honoring the past while inviting progress.
redefining public space
fostering creativity and inclusion
This project showcases the power of art in transforming public space. By integrating collaborative design and community input, it redefines what public playgrounds can achieve in being platforms for both physical and intellectual growth of the youth, serving as a model for fostering creativity, inclusivity and vibrancy in urban environments, promoting shared ownership and pride.
about the dewitt playground project
at the dewitt playground, madison park athletic complex
Studio Luz Architects, in collaboration with Boston-based artist, Marlon Forrester and the Boston Arts Commission, led the revitalization at the Dewitt Playground. This project aims to enhance the existing community space through a blend of public art installations emphasizing inclusivity, intergenerational engagement and health + wellness. The design includes elements like the “Mirror of History” mural fence, shaded canopies, and interactive sidelines inspired by sacred geometry artwork by Marlon Forrester. Each installation aims to celebrate the site’s historical and cultural significance while creating a welcoming and functional space for residents and visitors. This project reflects a commitment to fostering community engagement and providing opportunities for exploration and connection through interactive design. It transforms the Dewitt Playground into a vibrant public space that bridges past and present, honoring Roxbury’s rich heritage while enhancing its future.
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