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Founded in 1805 by painter and scientist Charles Willson Peale and sculptor William Rush, the Academy continues to focus on its founding mission - that of collecting, exhibiting, and teaching fine art in America, combining studio instruction and direct contact with historic and contemporary works of art. Through our spectacular galleries, our internationally known school of fine arts and our public programs, the Academy strives to integrate these resources, providing the student or the visitor with a unique and thrilling experience.

School of Fine Arts The Academy attracts some of the most committed and promising art students from across the country and around the globe. Our faculty, composed entirely of working artists, maintains high standards in a rigorous curriculum, enabling students to master themselves and command the technical, philosophical, historical and contemporary aspects of the fine arts.

Continuing and Public Education   The Academy offers a range of public educational programs, including general guided tours of the Galleries. Continuing Education Programs offer individual evening, day and weekend classes for credit or personal enrichment. Saturday art-making workshops and classes are available for children and families. Adults can also enjoy lunchtime art talks and Visiting Artist lectures. Special programs highlight the collection and exhibitions.

Gallery Tours The exquisite galleries of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts boast one of the preeminent collections of American art in the world. The collection is central to the teachings of the Academy within the school as well as for the public. Tours of the permanent collection and for current special exhibitions are available for prospective students and interested tour groups.