The Woodmere Art Museum tells the story of Philadelphia and its artists, with a permanent collection and changing exhibits that focus on local artists from the 1800s to the current day.
Located in a stately 19th century mansion in historic Chestnut Hill, the Woodmere is surrounded by a sculpture garden and children’s art garden. Its front lawn hosts an elaborate corn maze each fall. For winter the mansion is strung with lights and its interior is decked for the holidays with a Dickensian charm that is striking.
The mansion’s layout adds to the quirk and charm of this place, which is a bit eclectic. Steps lead up to a rotunda catwalk ringed in art. It is an intimate way to encounter each piece, with just enough space for one person to stand in front of it, a foot away, at a time. The round gallery below is light and airy, filled with rotating treasures.
The Founder’s Galleries across the hall showcase the old architectural features of the mansion, with its gorgeously restored woodwork and crown moulding, and older pieces in the collection that fit the age of the home.
A back gallery hosts work from area school kids. It is bright and colorful, jam packed with pottery, collage, crepe paper and prints. It’s hard to imagine a more cheerful space!
Catch live music on weekend: jazz on Friday evenings and occasionally classical on Saturdays. Look for family happenings on Sundays. The museum’s gift shop is full of treasures.
