Progressive Philadelphia Art Galleries

By Helen Georgette


Visitors who think that Philadelphia's art scene tops with Robert Indiana's Love sculpture and the Rocky statue will be happy to know that the City of Brotherly Love is teeming with places to find quality fine art. American history could be on the forefront of most people's minds when thinking of the city, but the art and culture that flows through the city is equally as extraordinary as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. A colourful local artistic community radiates in the city and the huge number of Philadelphia art galleries available makes their work available to enjoy

First Friday in the city of Philadelphia

Seeded all throughout the city - from the outdoor mosaics of Philly's Magic Gardens to the Picasso's hanging in the Museum of Art - there are galleries in Philadelphia that cater to tastes from eclectic to traditional. Many of the galleries are located in the Old Town district and are open for viewing during the popular art events of "First Friday".

Slingluff Gallery

Situated in Fishtown and owned by Jonathon Slingluff and his wife Leigh, the couple offer monthly showings that may go from local street art to contemporary art from all over the world. This is undoubtedly one of the more popular Philadelphia art galleries due to the revolving exhibits that appeal to introductory art backers as well as those with a rather more practiced eye.

Locks Gallery

Housed in a stately 3-story building in Washington Square, Locks Gallery enjoys a name as one of the most prominent art galleries in Philadelphia. Utilizing its influence in international art circles, the gallery has helped raise the profile of several local artists such as Jane Irish and Edna Andrade.

The Clay Studio

Part of the Old Town gallery district, The Clay Studio was opened to give new artists a place to display their creations and work. It has since then turned into the number one place in Philadelphia to see and purchase unique art. With the gallery and store, The Clay Studio also offers classes for those wanting to make their own art.

Schmidt-Dean

For over 25 years Christopher Schmidt has been showing his creations and that of others from his Chestnut Street gallery. An ex "Best of Philly" winner, Schmidt exhibits a large range of work includingpainting, photography and sculpture, mostly by local artists.

Biello Martin Studio

Michael Biello and Dan Martin, with architectural designer Carlo Fiammenghi have joined together to bring one of the most eclectic art spaces in the country to Philly. This Old Town studio/gallery conjures up the salon atmosphere of Europe, where works of all mediums are on show.




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