Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (Philadelphia, New Hope: receptions, house, buyers)

[NadjaBreton]

Hi all,

I will be attending the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in the fall as a graduate student. I've never been to Philly before and I'm interested in knowing what people have heard about the Academy-- its reputation in the city and such. I'd love to hear from people who have visited the museum and especially anyone who has actually attended the school.

Also, as an artsy sort of gal, I would like to know what artistic and cultural venues the city has to offer that you can recommend to me. I've become familiarized with the major art museums (Philly Museum of Art, Barnes Foundation, Contemporary Art Institute) through reading guide books. I am more interested in hearing about your favorite art galleries and venues that wouldn't necessarily make it into a guide book.




Thanks to all those who reply!



Nadja

[newmarlig]

The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts has an excellent reputation. Do you have any idea where you will be living. If you are not sure, I think you would enjoy Old City. It's not too far from the school. You can walk on a nice day (center city Philly is very walkable) or you can take public transportation (a very short ride). Here is some more information.

Welcome to Old City Arts Association Online


Even if you don't choose to live there, you will want to spend some time walking around on:

first fridays

Hosted by the Old City Arts Association since its 1991 inception, First Friday is a unique cultural event in Philadelphia and one of the city’s most popular evening escapes. Held the first Friday night of each month, this arts community “open house” brings together city dwellers and suburbanites, contemporary arts and antique collectors, aficionados of classical and contemporary design, and theater and performance buffs.

The welcoming informality of First Friday attracts crowds of casual browsers as well as serious buyers to each festive event, featuring dozens of Old City’s galleries and shops hosting exhibition receptions or just open for your perusal and enjoyment.

When: The first Friday evening of each month, rain or shine, year-round.

Hours: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Please Note There is no admission fee for First Friday - participating establishments are open to the public. First Friday hours for some Old City Arts members may vary during the summer and on holidays.

[NadjaBreton]

Thank you, Newmarlig! Very helpful.
I am going to be staying at International House in University City...(for my first year anyway). It seems to be sandwiched in between UPenn and Drexel University.

[Pat_in_Pa]

Sounds like you know where to go in the city for theory.
Philadelphia Art Galleries: Philadelphia Art Galleries and Museums - Philly Gallery Guide

Maybe try to get out for business as well. Go to where people actually buy art if you want to find out what sells, in addition to what is simply made and looked at.

Go to New Hope. Also walk across the bridge to Lambertville on a Saturday.
Have fun.

[NadjaBreton]

Thank you for the info and recommendations, Pat in Pa! That's very helpful.
And yes, the business side of things is definitely something I need to know about...
Thanks again.