As the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) reflects on recent accomplishments and prepares for a promising future and the re-installation of our permanent collection, we must honor the leadership of Eric Pryor. Since stepping into the role of President and CEO in January 2022, Eric has…

Next year, we’ll celebrate PAFA’s 220th Anniversary, ahead of the nation’s sesquicentennial in 2026. While PAFA’s not quite as old as the United States, it has played a significant role in the country’s artistic and cultural development since its founding in 1805. As the first museum and art school…

Nobody can believe it’s the end of 2024, yet the holidays are here, and there’s more shopping to do! Instead of turning to big-box retailers, why not give a unique and meaningful gift that supports the very first art school and museum in the United States? Whether you're shopping for an artist, an…

The recently premiered documentary, The Legacy of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts: Faculty Recollections, celebrates the personal and professional journeys of six esteemed faculty members. Created as an independent study project by Nina Byerly (BFA ’24) and Raffi Zarzatian (BFA ’24) as…

“I recently cleaned out my parents' garage and stumbled upon my old college essay. I had written about how I wanted to be an artist and change the world.”

Several years later, Maia Palmer is an artist, and she is changing the world. 

Originally from Delaware, Maia has  journeyed across the world, from…

“A friend is one that knows you as you are, understands where you have been, accepts what you have become, and still, gently allows you to grow.”* This sentiment perfectly captures our excitement and gratitude as we welcome back Harry Philbrick to the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) as…