Philadelphia is a city thriving with art, and as a student you should immerse yourself in as many creative experiences as possible. Whether it be visual art, dance, theater, or music, there are so many opportunities to engage in the arts community first-hand. In the summer months, art exhibits of all types are held more often and are typically held outdoors in the welcoming weather. The best part of these events? They fit a college students’ budget, as most of them are free and open to the public. Here’s a list of some exciting chances to engage in different events in the art community of Philly this week!
Pasion y Arte Flamenco Co. Performance in Public Spaces
When: Friday, June 12, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. Where: The Porch at 30th Street Station. Cost: Free!
Pasion y Arte Flamenco is the premier all-female flamenco dance company in Philly and will be presenting an hour-long, interactive, and fun dance performance on the outdoor porch of 30th street Station. The entertaining performance will include a brief history of the Flamenco dance, Flamenco dancers and musicians from the company, live music, and an invitation for audience members to join in the Flamenco dancing and have fun.
ARTspiration!
When: Saturday, June 13, 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. Where: Fleisher Art Memorial, 719 Catharine Street. Cost: Free!
Fleisher will be holding its annual community arts festival ARTspiration!, which has become so popular it is often attended by more than 2,000 people. This free event that was started in 2007 will be held on Catharine Street right outside Fleisher’s historic campus. This festival will cater to all ages and offer a look into the creativity and art that is so present in Philadelphia. Activities include music and dance performances and art-making activities led by local artists.
West Park Arts Fest
When: Saturday, June 13, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Where: West Park Cultural Center, 4201 Parkside Avenue. Cost: Free!
The 8th annual West Park Arts Fest will be held at the West Park Cultural Center and celebrate different cultures and the diverse community of Philadelphia through music and dance. The celebration will include outdoor singers and performers, cultural dance groups, and activities for children such as arts and crafts under a pavilion.
Graffito Works at Shofuso House
When: Sunday, June 14, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Where: Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, Landsdowne Drive and Horticultural Drive. Cost: Free after admission!
Graffito Works is an interactive, site-specific dance performance that is open to the public, and is choreographed and directed by Steven Weisz. The on-site dance will show audience members a collaborative and thoughtful work as the dancers improvisational skills are shown through their interactions with each other, the site, and objects around them.
Open Spaces: An Art in the Open Exhibition
When: Tuesday June 16, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Where: Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, 8480 Hagys Mill Road. Cost: Free!
The scenic and nature-oriented Schuylkill Center is hosting their Open Spaces outdoor arts exhibition. Nine artists will present their work both indoors and on the trails of the Schuylkill Center. These artists spent three days creating their work in public, some artists creating string and ribbon sculptures, and leaving their creative processes visible to audience members. The event will also hold a reception to celebrate these talented artists and offer light refreshments in the gallery, along with a guided walk to the outdoor works.
