A massive 28-foot by 93-foot mural has been installed at Skatin’ Place, Golden Gate Park’s popular skating spot near 6th Ave and JFK Drive. The mural features a golden roller skate surrounded by swirls of counterculture colors including yellow, orange, red, teal, and purple.
Bay Area artist and skater Aimee Bruckner designed the mural to celebrate Golden Gate Park’s roller skating history, which goes back all the way to 1891 when park superintendent John McLaren installed the first roller rink. Rollin’ Place has since become synonymous with self-expression and acceptance.
The ground mural is designed to support skaters and help them maintain their balance on top of it, and the use of durable asphalt acrylic paint, plus a weather resistant coat, will make for easy maintenance.
SF Rec & Parks collaborated with David Miles Jr. of the Church of 8 Wheels to create the ground mural.
“David Miles and the community at Skatin’ Place have brought so much joy and life to our city, especially during times when we have needed it most. From Sunday roller disco parties to providing a supportive atmosphere for San Franciscans of all ages and backgrounds, Skatin’ Place represents the best of what our city can offer. This mural honors that history and beautiful spirit of inclusion,” said Mayor London Breed.
“This mural at 6th Avenue Skatin’ Place really represents roller skating’s contribution to quality of life in San Francisco,” Miles said. “Generations have experienced the fun, the joy, the sheer excitement of coming here to roller skate on a bright Sunday afternoon. This mural is a great acknowledgement to those like myself and many others that have worked hard over the years to keep the good times rolling.”
Find the Skatin’ Place mural east of the 8th Avenue entrance off of JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park.
Featured image: @sfrecpark via Instagram