“Nearby the playground we visit at Luck’s Field are basketball courts. My boys are too small to really use the hoops but they sure do admire the players. They’ve even had a couple friendly guys lift them up to help them make “dunks.” From my view at the playground, I take in the courts abuzz with competition and on their borders, clumps of men gathered together, some chatting, some bantering, some just being in each other’s presence. It occurs to me that these courts are about more than just exercise or even recreation. They are a sacred, communal space. The courts draw men, old and young, within their borders. When creating this painting, I wanted to show it from my perspective at the park—someone observing with admiration but from a respectful distance. I also wanted to show the gravitating affect of the courts by including a figure who is headed there from wherever he was, accompanied by the sound coming from his headphones, his backpack carrying his court sneakers, his spirit leaning into the opportunity to belong.”

— Christy Collins, Artist

50% of the proceeds from this sale will be donated to Urban Hope.

This painting will remain on display at Front Porch Cafe for the duration of the series exhibit and will be scheduled for delivery to the purchaser at the conclusion of the exhibit.