Philadelphia Museum of Art gets $20 million for education center

The Philadelphia Museum of Art has received a $20 million gift from philanthropists Lois and Julian Brodsky to create a dedicated education center in its north wing. The project will repurpose parts of the North Entrance area for learning programs and community activities.

The planned Brodsky Learning and Engagement Center is intended to give the museum purpose-built space for education, which museum director and CEO Daniel Weiss said was missing from the building despite its recent renovation. The change will adapt parts of the Frank Gehry-designed overhaul, completed in 2021, to better support the museum’s educational work.

The museum welcomes about 36,000 students each year from Philadelphia and nearby cities and states, according to The Art Newspaper. The new center is also intended to connect children, families and underserved communities with the museum’s collection of about 245,000 works of art.

Who will use the center

The spaces are expected to serve large school groups as well as smaller adult classes and workshops. Weiss said the museum also plans to accommodate senior communities, advanced learners and other groups, with rooms that can be used during the day and into the evening.

The museum says the center will include multipurpose areas and art studios. It is intended to support programs for teens and multiple generations, along with community discussions and partnerships. The museum currently offers free admission to visitors 18 and younger.

When work is expected to begin

Philadelphia architecture firm MGA Partners is developing the design. Construction is expected to start in summer 2027 and take a few years, WHYY reported. The museum has not announced a completion date.

Weiss said construction costs are not expected to use the full gift. Any remaining money will go toward an endowment supporting the museum’s education programs.

This report draws on information from The Art Newspaper - International art news and events and WHYY.