Pew has encouraged a revitalization of Philadelphia’s arts and cultural scene that is helping to improve the city’s broader economic outlook. Sometimes, Pew’s efforts go beyond its existing support of arts and culture organizations by bringing leadership and funding into specific projects.
For example, Pew helped create the coalition of donors that kept the Thomas Eakins painting The Gross Clinic in Philadelphia.
And when one of the world’s premier art institutions—the Barnes Foundation—approached us for help, we worked closely with the Annenberg and Lenfest foundations and other civic leaders to galvanize financial and other support for the Barnes’ plan to relocate to a more accessible home in central Philadelphia. The Trusts also helped spearhead the fundraising campaign for the Barnes’ move to its prominent new location.
Pew also provided the lead grant for the traveling exhibition, Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World, that began in Philadelphia, visited several other United States cities, and concluded in Paris. Locally, we supported the restoration of the eight monumental bronze sculptures atop Philadelphia’s City Hall tower by renowned artist Alexander Milne Calder.
Photo by Gabriel Harrison for Conservation of Sculpture and Objects Studio, Inc. Restoration of Alexander Milne Calder sculptures atop Philadelphia’s City Hall.
Sep 21, 2009 - This research report from the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance offers specific insights into how the Philadelphia region's diverse population engages with the arts and the report provides specific strategies for cultural organizations looking to build stronger audience connections.
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Apr 30, 2008 - Mount Vernon, the House of Seven Gables, Hearst Castle: We have read about these historic houses, and maybe even visited them. Most likely, we have also been to one of the other historic houses in America. Some thrive, but many are barely solvent. These two articles describe how some redefined their role in the community—and thus stayed true to their mission and purpose.
May 07, 2007 - Thomas Eakins' masterpiece is jointly purchased by the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
May 01, 2007 - The Pew Charitable Trusts pledged $6 million to modernize Franklin Court for the Centennial Challenge initiative to improve our national parks.
May 01, 2006 - America has always had strong opinions about Franklin. Walter Isaacson assesses his relevance as he turns 300.
Feb 01, 2006 - Article describes background and history of Barnes Foundation, its possible demise, and its re-location.
Oct 01, 2004 - Art museums' community connections.
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