Author Ross Gallery

UNIVERSITY CITY

The Arthur Ross Gallery of the University of Pennsylvania is a relatively recent addition to an institution founded long ago by Benjamin Franklin to supply a need that the Founder himself had overlooked. In Franklin's early schemes for an education that would link the practical with the ornamental, the emphasis, in view of the immediate needs of Colonial America, was all on the practical.

Housed in a National Historic Landmark Building designed by Philadelphia architect Frank Furness, the University's official art gallery opened in 1983 in a 1920's addition originally constructed to house the University's Shakespeare Library. Renovation of the space and the magnificent Furness stairway was made possible through the generosity of University alumnus and philanthropist Arthur Ross.

Through the diversity of its exhibitions, the Arthur Ross Gallery links the University with the city of Philadelphia and broader communities, and draws attention to the work and role in society of artists, art historians, and curators. It presents objects from private collections and historic institutions, including Penn, to enhance the ambience on campus and to draw visitors to West Philadelphia. The Gallery contributes to the educational programs of the University and ultimately demonstrates the role played by art in a variety of academic and human endeavors.

Hours:
Tues - Fri: 10am to 5pm
Sat - Sun: 12pm to 5pm
Closed Mondays and some holidays.

Author Ross Gallery is located at:
220 South 34th Street
(Between Walnut and Spruce Streets)
In the Fisher Fine Arts Library

Phone: 215.898.1479

E-mail: arg@pobox.upenn.edu

Web: www.upenn.edu/ARG