A vibrant new public artwork is taking shape at Los Angeles City Hall, where artist Liseth Amaya is weaving together the city’s love of soccer and its multicultural neighborhoods. The project, commissioned by the L.A. Department of Recreation and Parks, invites youths from parks across the city to create decorated wooden hexagons that will form a large‑scale installation celebrating the municipality’s participation in the 2026 men’s World Cup.
From the Pitch to the Palette
Amaya, the daughter of Salvadoran immigrants and a Los Angeles native who earned her degree at Central Saint Martins in London, is hosting a series of workshops at events like "Kick It In The Park" watch parties. At one such gathering in MacArthur Park’s historic Westlake neighborhood, students painted their hexagons with flags from Guatemala, El Salvador and Mexico, as well as personal symbols ranging from iced matcha to favorite animals. All materials are provided at no cost, and participants may either keep their pieces or donate them to the installation.
The hexagons will be assembled into a sprawling mural that reflects the diverse cultural fabric of the city while echoing the spirit of the World Cup. Amaya plans to paint complementary murals inspired by Los Angeles’s soccer enthusiasm, turning the artwork into a visual tribute to the tournament’s upcoming arrival.
A Citywide Celebration
Dozens of free "Kick It In The Park" World Cup watch parties are scheduled at 18 park sites, including MacArthur Park, Northridge Recreation Center and Echo Park Lake. These events serve as gathering points where youngsters can bring their decorated hexagons to Amaya’s work station. The watch‑party series will run through July 19, providing a limited window for Angelenos to contribute to the growing installation.
Beyond the artistic endeavor, the project underscores the city’s commitment to engaging youth in public spaces and to highlighting the cultural narratives that unite its residents. By blending sport, art and community participation, the installation aims to become a lasting reminder of Los Angeles’s role on the global stage as it prepares to host portions of the 2026 World Cup.