The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art is a School and a Museum

The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art is not only one of the major academic institutions of the city it is also one of its greatest museums. This double aspect of the facility is uncommon in schools though it represents one of the progressive and holistic aspects of the arts fields. There are two parts to visual arts and many scholastic programs focus on the techniques of creating the art, while having a premiere gallery adds prestige and demonstrates one of the ultimate goals with any art, which is to have it seen by as many people as possible. The museum is well supported by the residents of Philadelphia as well as many of the tourists who are staying in some of the city’s finest hotels .

In addition to the above mentioned attributes of the academy, the museum and school is the oldest in the nation. Charles Willson Peale , who was a respected painter and scientist, along with the sculptor William Rush and other artists established the academy in 1805. The current building in which the museum exists was built in 1876 and it was designed by the architects Frank Furness and George W. Hewitt. It has been designated as one of the Nation’s historic landmarks and demonstrates the history of arts and architecture in Philadelphia.

As part of its mission, the museum has collected great masterpieces from American painters since it was first established. It also includes in its prized collections some of the great works of previous instructors of the academy as well as honored alumni. The works in collection include contemporary as well as 19th and early 20th century works. In over 200 years of existence, the PAFA has mounted over one thousand exhibits. In addition to the various special academic events and exhibits there are various public programs that popular with individuals who are not otherwise associated with the school or museum. Some of these include special lectures, presentations and discussions among other things.

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Filed under: Art, Travel

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