Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Philadelphia, PA
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
America's longest continuously operating art museum and school, forging artistic legacies since 1805.
Step into a vibrant legacy at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA), the nation's oldest continuously operating art museum and art school. Founded in 1805 by visionaries like Charles Willson Peale and sculptor William Rush, PAFA has been a cornerstone of American art, offering an unparalleled environment for artistic development. Its historic home, the stunning Frank Furness-designed building, stands as a testament to its enduring commitment to the arts, housing an internationally renowned collection of 19th and 20th-century American paintings, sculptures, and works on paper, including important archival materials for art history scholars.
PAFA is celebrated for its influential history, including pioneering the inclusion of women in art education. From allowing women exclusive access to its statue gallery in 1844 to Catherine Drinker becoming the first female instructor in 1878, PAFA has consistently pushed boundaries. The institution's academic rigor was significantly shaped by figures like Thomas Eakins, who revamped the curriculum to emphasize drawing, painting, sculpture, and printmaking, fostering an environment where independent study and faculty critiques propelled students to artistic excellence.
While PAFA is adapting its degree offerings, it continues to be a vital hub for serious artists. Prospective students can pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in conjunction with the University of Pennsylvania, offering a robust academic and artistic foundation. Additionally, PAFA maintains its highly regarded certificate programs and a diverse range of continuing education opportunities, allowing artists at every stage to refine their craft and engage with a dynamic creative community. As a recipient of the National Medal of Arts, PAFA remains dedicated to nurturing the next generation of artists within its historic walls and through its celebrated collections.
Key Highlights
- ✦Established in 1805, PAFA holds the distinction of being the longest continuously operating art museum and art school in the United States.
- ✦Home to an internationally renowned collection of 19th and 20th-century American art, including the significant Linda Lee Alter Collection of Art by Women.
- ✦Received the prestigious National Medal of Arts in 2005 for its leadership in fine arts education.
- ✦The iconic Frank Furness-designed building, constructed from 1871-1876, is a U.S. National Historic Landmark.
- ✦Offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in conjunction with the University of Pennsylvania, alongside certificate and continuing education programs.
- ✦Pioneered the inclusion of women in art education, with Catherine Drinker becoming the first female instructor in 1878 and Cecilia Beaux the first female painting and drawing faculty in 1895.
- ✦Displays Thomas Eakins' seminal work "The Gross Clinic" on a rotating basis with the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
3 notable schools within Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Bachelor of Fine Arts (in conjunction with the University of Pennsylvania)
A comprehensive undergraduate program leading to a BFA degree, combining PAFA's intensive studio training with the academic rigor of the University of Pennsylvania.
Certificate Programs
Longstanding, immersive four-year programs providing in-depth training in drawing, painting, sculpture, and printmaking for dedicated artists.
Continuing Education
A diverse offering of non-degree courses and workshops for artists of all levels and backgrounds to explore new techniques or deepen existing skills.
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