What is American Art? An Insider’s Tour

What makes American art American? This tour dives into that question—moving from timeless sculptures and paintings to David Lynch’s very first film and bold contemporary experiments. Along the way, you’ll uncover stories of PAFA, America’s first art museum and school, and the artists who shaped over 200 years of creativity.

Tour Highlights

• Sculpture Study Center – Trace the foundations of American realism through the work of William Rush, Thomas Eakins, and Samuel Murray—pioneers who helped define America’s first artistic identity.
• Anne Bryan Gallery & David Lynch’s First Film – Step into PAFA’s historic plaster cast collection, once essential to every young artist’s training. Then jump forward in time to David Lynch’s Six Men Getting Sick, the $200 short film that launched his groundbreaking career.
• In This Academy – See this curated exhibit through the eyes of PAFA’s own students and faculty. Discover how works like Edith Longstreth Wood’s 1906 modernist paintings resonate with today’s inventive approaches.
• New Horizons – End your journey with works by Jennifer Bartlett, Shiva Ahmadi, and James Brantley—artists whose voices expand and redefine American art through abstraction, modernism, and diverse perspectives.

Since 1805, PAFA has been at the center of America’s artistic story. This tour invites you to follow that journey—from the Academy’s earliest traditions to the daring ideas that keep American art alive.

No prior knowledge of art is required—just bring your curiosity! 

After your tour, enjoy even more perks:

• All day museum admission
• 10% off food & drinks at the Aloft Hotel across the street*
• 15% off at the PAFA Museum Store**

Space is limited. Advance registration required.

Price: $20 per person. Space is limited to 15 guests per tour, and participants must be 16+. $10 for PAFA members.

*10% discount cannot be combined with other discounts and does not include tax or tip. Please show your PAFA tour receipt to receive Aloft discount.

** Museum Store discount only available the day of your tour. 15% discount cannot be applied to consignment work and cannot be combined with other discounts.