Sharmistha Ray's Vibrant Murals Transform Pittsburgh Pickleball Courts

Sharmistha Ray has introduced "Geometry of Play," a collection of colorful floor murals on three pickleball courts located in downtown Pittsburgh. This artwork, commissioned by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, is part of the $31 million Arts Landing, a community space that opened earlier this year. The courts were revealed on July 16 and are accompanied by public art from creators like Thaddeus Mosley and John Peña. Inspired by the Indian game Pachisi (known as Parcheesi in the US), Ray's designs feature dynamic patterns that change from various perspectives. One court showcases a vibrant concentric circle, while another presents a prism of colors. Ray, a co-founder of Hilma's Ghost, highlighted pickleball's inclusive nature and created matching paddles for public use. Having previously played tennis, badminton, and squash, she tried pickleball for the first time to enhance her understanding of the project. The sports paint posed challenges, requiring precise color matching. Ray aspires for her work to bring joy and connection to its audience.