Contrafuerte Philadelphia
Outdoor sculpture
Bronwyn from Philadelphia
Artist Miguel Antonio Horn who studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (Certificate 2006) “creates large-scale sculptures using digital and analog processes across a variety of mediums” that speak to the struggles of contemporary life, especially here in Philly where he and his wife live with their 2 kids. As he notes on his site “my art is constantly responding to societal issues and that is informed by my community and the problems they are confronting every day.” His work is engaged and engaging.
His latest public sculpture “Contrafuerte” (buttress) (an amazing August 2021 gift for the city - thanks to the Percent for Art program) is comprised of eight entangled nude bodies attempting to hold up a small concrete bridge that crosses a gritty Cuthbert St between 12th and 13th streets across from Philadelphia's Reading Terminal Market. The somewhat Sisyphean nature of their task pronounces the importance of communal effort (better to engage with others) despite the overwhelming struggles faced. The figures are roughly triple the size of an average-sized person and are made up of thousands of aluminum plates “meticulously designed to [create figures] integrate into the existing built environment.”
It’s an eye-dazzling piece in somewhat ugly surroundings. The day I visited, the alley was trash-strewn and dirty which strangely (or not) suited the subject. Regard from all angles and ponder our existential plight.
Philadelphia Spotter Bronwyn
Our Philadelphia City Guide
Find your way with 157 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Philadelphia
Material Culture
Anthropology museum or shop?
"Material Culture" in Philadelphia isn't just a store. It is a world. A global journey. An aesthetic trek through history & cultures...
by
Andrea
Szyper
Laurel Hill Cemetery
I see dead people
"Laurel Hill Cemetery" in Philadelphia is equal parts public garden, sculpture park, historical campus and graveyard. It's a truly special spot...
by
Andrea
Szyper
Fabric Workshop and Museum
Contemporary art
The "Fabric Workshop and Museum" in Philadelphia is one of the best places to see contemporary art - it's a central overlooks gem!
by
Andrea
Szyper
Penn Museum of Anthropology
Mummies and more
The "Penn Museum of Anthropology" in Philadelphia would be a marquee attraction in a smaller town. Don't overlook this jewel and its collections, trust me.
by
Andrea
Szyper
Woodmere Art Museum
Home to Philadelphia artists
The "Woodmere Art Museum" and its mansion tell the story of Philadelphia and its artists from the 1800s to now. Don't miss its gift shop or back gallery!
by
Andrea
Szyper
Greene Street Consignment
Fashion-forward fun
"Greene Street Consignment" in Philadelphia makes it easy to find great pieces on their tidy, colorful shelves. My recommendation: check the clearance racks!
by
Andrea
Szyper
Simeone Foundation
The cool car museum
The "Simeone Foundation" Philadelphia is one of the finest private collections of classic cars in the US. This out-of-the-way treasure is a must see...
by
Andrea
Szyper
Night Kitchen
The best bakery in Chestnut Hill
How "Night Kitchen" get its cinnamon rolls to absorb so much butter is one of the great mysteries of Philadelphia. It's my favorite bakery in Chestnut Hill.
by
Andrea
Szyper
Hokka Hokka
Too pretty to eat
"Hokka Hokka" in Philadelphia is the sushi bar/restaurant my husband and I start so many of our dates. This balance of tasty and beauty is something else.
by
Andrea
Szyper
Solar Myth
Adventurous Jazz Bar
Besides the packed schedule of shows, they are also a daytime coffee shop that opens its bar at noon. They have a great (rotating) wine selection as well!
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Mummers Concerts
So local
The only reason I know about the Mummers Concerts in Philadelphia is because I lived behind the small 'park' for over 10 years! Can't get more local...
by
Doug
Daub
Dalessandro's Steaks & Hoagies
A local fave
You probably already know Philadelphia is famous for its cheesesteaks, but who has the best? It's "Dalessandro's Steaks & Hoagies" in Roxborough...
by
Holly
Miller
Heading to Philadelphia?
157 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 157 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Philadelphia
Get to know our other Spotters from Philadelphia
As featured on:
