As he was teaching sculpture in Harlem (in the early 60s) he started designing Playgrounds with the participation of his students and later, the passersby in the community surrounding the sites. These became the first "vest-pocket Parks" in New York City, as well as being among the first attempts at creating Public Art with Community Participation since the Middle Ages. He then brought the idea to the Lower East Side: Henry Street Settlement and University Settlement Playgrounds, among others.

The Benches around Grant's Tomb at 122nd and Riverside New York City also see video clip: Outdoor Living Authority Inspiration #15 - Mosaic Benches at Grant’s Tomb Click here for a full panoramic view of the Benches

The Mermaid, Scotland

The Serpent Fannie Mae Dees Park 2400 Blakemore Ave Nashville, TN 37212 (615) 862-8400

Animal Park Playground Henry Street Settlement, 40 Montgomery Street Manhattan, NY Interview with Pedro Silva by The New York Foundation for the Arts

University Settlement, NYC