Brodskys give Philadelphia art museum 20 million dollars for learning centre
The Philadelphia Museum of Art has received a 20 million dollar gift from Lois G. and Julian A. Brodsky for a learning and engagement centre in its north wing. Preliminary plans include art studios and family spaces. MGA Partners is preparing the design, expected by summer 2027; the museum says the project will expand its capacity for school groups.
Arts··Midday
Brodsky gift supports a north-wing learning centre
The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the art museum in the US city of Philadelphia, announced a 20 million dollar gift from Lois G. and Julian A. Brodsky on October 23. The couple’s support will establish a learning and engagement centre in the museum’s north wing. The centre will bear their names and serve schoolchildren alongside the wider public.[1], [2]
Initial plans include a family learning centre, art studios, a visitor orientation area and a multipurpose community hub. The museum wants activities in these spaces to connect with its collections throughout the galleries.[1]
MGA Partners prepares a design for summer 2027
Philadelphia architecture practice MGA Partners is preparing the schematic design. The museum expects that design by summer 2027 and anticipates construction finishing within a few years. This is its first major capital project since the Core Project, architect Frank Gehry’s four-year interior renovation and expansion, reopened in May 2021.[1]
More space is planned for school groups
The museum currently welcomes approximately 36,000 students a year. Audrey Hudson, its deputy director for learning and engagement, says dedicated programming rooms and studios will address the need for more capacity for school groups. Guided visits and bus transport remain free for eligible schools and programmes in the region. Admission is free for visitors aged 18 and younger. The Brodskys’ earlier support includes a photography curator position endowed in 2009.[1]
