The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the most prominent cultural institutions in the United States, and it is located in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This museum is known for its extensive collection of art from around the world, ranging from ancient to contemporary works. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is also famous for its iconic architecture, which includes the grand staircase that was featured in the movie “Rocky.” The museum attracts visitors from all over the world, who come to admire its beautiful galleries, exhibitions, and special events.
In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. We will delve into the history of the museum, its collections, and some of its most significant works. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about the museum and provide you with practical information to plan your visit.
History of the Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art was founded in 1876, during the Centennial Exposition, which celebrated the 100th anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence. The museum was originally located in a building called Memorial Hall, which was designed by architect Hermann J. Schwarzmann. Memorial Hall was built to commemorate the Centennial Exposition and served as the museum’s home until 1928.
In 1919, the museum received a significant donation from philanthropist Peter A. B. Widener, which allowed for the construction of a new building to house the museum’s growing collections. The new building was designed by prominent architect Horace Trumbauer, and it was opened to the public in 1928.
Over the years, the Philadelphia Museum of Art has undergone several renovations and expansions to accommodate its growing collections and visitors. In 2007, the museum opened its Perelman Building, which houses the museum’s contemporary art and design collections, as well as its costume and textile arts exhibitions.
Collections at the Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art has a vast collection of art from around the world, spanning over 2,000 years of history. The museum’s collections are divided into several departments, including American Art, European Art, East Asian Art, South Asian Art, Islamic Art, Prints, Drawings, and Photographs, and Contemporary Art.
Some of the most famous works in the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s collections include:
- Marcel Duchamp’s “The Bride Stripped Bare by Her Bachelors, Even,” also known as “The Large Glass.”
- Vincent van Gogh’s “Sunflowers.”
- Paul Cézanne’s “Bathers.”
- Thomas Eakins’ “The Gross Clinic.”
- Auguste Rodin’s “The Thinker.”
Apart from these masterpieces, the museum has an extensive collection of art from different cultures and time periods. The American Art department, for instance, features works by prominent American artists such as Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, and James McNeill Whistler. The European Art department includes works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Picasso, among others.
Exhibitions and Events at the Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art hosts several exhibitions and events throughout the year, providing visitors with opportunities to learn more about different cultures, art movements, and artists. The museum’s exhibitions cover a broad range of topics, from ancient to contemporary art.
Some of the upcoming exhibitions at the Philadelphia Museum of Art include:
- “The Art of African Ivory,” which explores the history and significance of ivory in African art.
- “Art and Politics in the Weimar Republic,” which examines the relationship between art and politics in Germany between World War I and World War II.
- “Designs for Different Futures,” which showcases innovative designs and ideas for the future.
In addition to exhibitions, the Philadelphia Museum of Art hosts a range of events and programs, including lectures, workshops, and performances. The museum’s Art After 5 program, for example, features live music, cocktails, and after-hours access to the galleries every Friday evening.
Practical Information for Visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art
If you’re planning a visit to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, here’s some practical information to keep in mind:
- Hours: The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. On Wednesdays and Fridays, the museum is open until 8:45 pm.
- Admission: General admission tickets cost $25 for adults, $23 for seniors, and $14 for students and youth. Members and children under 12 get in for free. The museum offers a “pay what you wish” policy on the first Sunday of every month.
- Getting there: The museum is located at 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia. It is easily accessible by car, public transportation, or on foot.
- Guided tours: The museum offers several guided tours, including Highlights, Thematic, and Private tours. Audio guides are also available for rent.
- Amenities: The museum has several dining options, including a café and a fine-dining restaurant. It also has a gift shop, coat check, and lockers for visitors’ convenience.
FAQs
- What is the Philadelphia Museum of Art vision statement?
The Philadelphia Museum of Art’s vision statement is: “To be the essential place for transformative visual experiences that inspire and connect us to each other, to nature, and to the world.” - Why is the Philadelphia Museum of Art famous?
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is famous for its extensive collection of art from around the world, spanning from ancient times to contemporary art. It is also famous for its iconic architecture, including the grand staircase featured in the movie “Rocky.” - Are Philly museums free on Sundays?
Some museums in Philadelphia, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month. However, the museum does not offer free admission every Sunday. - What is the Philadelphia museum known as?
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is also known as “the art museum” or simply “the museum.” - What is the oldest museum in America Pennsylvania?
The oldest museum in America is the Peale Museum in Baltimore, Maryland, which opened in 1814. However, Pennsylvania is home to several museums that have been operating for over a century, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which opened in 1877, and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, which opened in 1895. - What are some fun facts about the Philadelphia Museum of Art?
– The museum’s collection includes over 240,000 works of art.
– The famous “Rocky Steps” in front of the museum were featured in the movie “Rocky” and have become a popular tourist attraction.
– The museum’s Perelman Building houses a collection of contemporary art and design, including an exhibit of costume and textile arts.
– The museum has a “pay what you wish” policy on the first Sunday of each month.
– The museum’s galleries are organized by region and time period, including collections from Asia, Europe, and America.
