News

Image: Elizabeth Robertson / Philadelphia Inquirer

Philadelphia Inquirer | Philly Museums Donate Protective Gear to Local Hospitals

In the scramble to find personal protective equipment (PPE), museums and art schools have stepped in to help local hospitals, all of whom say they are running short. Discover how PAFA, along with other local institutions, are participating in the efforts to fight the coronavirus.
In the News
exterior view of HLB and SMVH

PAFA From Home: Inspiration Everywhere, Anywhere

PAFA’s doors may be closed temporarily to the public, but art doesn’t stop, and neither do we. There are still many ways that you can engage with our vibrant community.
Dr. Constance Clayton and her mother, Williabell Clayton

Artsy | The Mother-Daughter Duo Who Amassed an Incredible Trove of African American Art

Karen Chernick takes a closer look at the mother-daughter duo of Dr. Constance E. and Williabell Clayton, whose personal collection of art is on view in our exhibition, "Awakened in You".
In the News
PAFA online collection screenshot

Association for Public Art | Virtual Art Tours in Philly

Philadelphia's Association for Public Art has compiled a list of online arts resources from local cultural organizations—including PAFA's own permanent collection, which is available online. This resource connects art lovers of all kinds to thousands of artworks from these organizations.

In the News
Maria Berrios

Artsy | What Museums Are Doing to Collect More Work by Women Artists

Claire Voon examines the efforts of museums—which includes PAFA—to expand their holdings of women artists.
In the News
john rhoden, "jupiter"

Artblog | Curators Work to Decolonize Western Art Museums

Kemuel Benyehudah weighs in about the importance of the work and activism of Black curators in collecting institutions, and spoke with curator Dr. Brittany Webb on her efforts at PAFA and beyond.
In the News
historic landmark building stairs

PAFA Museum to Close to the Public Temporarily

In response to the growing public health threat posed by COVID-19, and out of a shared responsibility to take all measures necessary to limit its spread, the PAFA Museum will temporarily close to the public beginning Saturday, March 14, until further notice.
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COVID-19 Update: Travel Guidelines for Faculty, Students, and Staff

Please be advised that all PAFA-sponsored travel has been suspended until further notice. This post contains information regarding policies on non-essential visits to PAFA, travel guidelines, and more.
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COVID-19 Update: Public Programming

In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, PAFA will suspend most public events through at least April 3. This post includes a list of initial cancellations, as well as information on ticket refunds, and where to direct inquiries.
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COVID-19 Update: A Message from the President & CEO

PAFA CEO & President Dr. David R. Brigham shares details on our response to the COVID-19 outbreak, including new precautionary measures and plans to protect our community’s collective health and wellbeing. The health and safety of the PAFA community is our highest priority.
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Faculty & Staff: Health Insurance Update on Coronavirus

PAFA is a member of the Philadelphia Area Independent School Business Officers Association (PAISBOA) Health Benefit Trust. Through our PAISBOA membership, faculty and staff PAFA health plan participants may receive needed testing and treatment for the coronavirus.
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Faculty & Staff: Managing Anxiety about Coronavirus

PAFA is committed to preserving and maintaining the health and safety of all members of its community. We do recognize that this is a challenging time for our community, the nation, and the world as we respond to COVID-19 and the uncertainty surrounding it.

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About PAFA

Founded in 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts is the United States’ first school and museum of fine arts. A recipient of the National Medal of Arts, PAFA offers a world-class collection of American art, innovative exhibitions of historic and contemporary American art, and educational opportunities in the fine arts. The PAFA Museum aims to tell America's diverse story through art, expanding who has been included in the canon of art history through its collections, exhibitions, and public programs, while classes educate artists and appreciators with a deep understanding of traditions and the ability to challenge conventions. PAFA’s esteemed alumni include Mary Cassatt, Njideka Akunyili Crosby, William Glackens, Barkley L. Hendricks, Violet Oakley, Louis Kahn, David Lynch, and Henry Ossawa Tanner.