An unusual assortment of works is available for you to explore at the Bethany Mission Gallery. They were collected by Philadelphia attorney Victor Keen and reflect his interest in unusual forms, be it in art or design--vernacular and folk art.
The gallery is spread out on two floors: on the first floor you'll see a collection of vintage radios, toys and banks, and glass objects, as well as work done by "outsider" artists (also referred to as "self-taught" or "visionary" artists), many of whom were not discovered in their lifetimes.
Many outsider artists have no or limited formal art training or education, have mental or physical disabilities, were incarcerated or institutionalized, lived in poverty or social isolation and/or have other forms of discrimination. The second floor of the gallery contains more work by outsider artists with individual works grouped together.
The Gallery Director, our tour leader, will acquaint us with all the artists and their works.
Lunch afterwards: For those interested, we'll have lunch at a neighborhood Mexican restaurant, Buena Vista, at 1701 Green St. Click here for the menu.
For up to 12 FitC members.
Cost: $6 (1$ for FitC costs, $5 for a donation to the adjacent Performance Garage, a non-profit dance performance space and studio founded by Jeanne Ruddy, Keen's wife and former Martha Graham Dance Company principal dancer). No refunds, minus a $2 fee) after February 27.
Accessibility: there are several steps to enter the building and a flight of stairs to go to the second floor.
Directions: The gallery is one block north of Spring Garden St. and one block west of Broad Street.
Broad St. Line: exit at Spring Garden The 43 bus runs east and west on Spring Garden. See Septa Trip Planner for other choices.
Parking may be available on the streets.
Thanks to FitC Volunteer Terry Demchak for organizing this event.
All FitC events are led by volunteer members. What event could you host?
Questions? Contact mignon.adams@gmail.com
