Philadelphia's newest museum to open in Chestnut Hill
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Artworks fill nearly every conceivable space in the new Frances M. Maguire Hall in Chestnut Hill. Photo: Courtesy Woodmere Art Museum
Philadelphia's newest museum opens in Chestnut Hill this weekend.
Why it matters: Cultural spaces are growing in the city at a time when cuts to federal arts funding are threatening organizations across Pennsylvania.
Driving the news: The Frances M. Maguire Hall for Art & Education along Germantown Avenue is a $28-million expansion of the Woodmere Art Museum.
- The Victorian mansion (a former convent) spans 17,000 square feet and was completely renovated.
The big picture: Maguire Hall is the latest cultural institution to pop up following Calder Gardens' debut on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in September.
What to expect:
- 🖼️ Roughly 500 works of art from Philadelphia regional artists
- 🧮 14 galleries
- 🗿 Outdoor sculptures
- 💍 A jewelry vault, which spans silver work to modern 3D-printed pieces
- 👧 A children's art studio
💡 1 fun fact: Look for repurposed light fixtures from Center City's former Boyd Theater inside the new museum.
🗓️ What's next: Maguire Hall's grand opening runs 10am-5pm Saturday and Sunday.
- The free event includes circus performances, live music, a caricature artist, photo booth and art projects.
