Looking for a new museum to explore? Well do I have just the place for you! The Barnes Foundation on Benjamin Franklin Parkway holds some of the most beautiful art you’ll ever see.
If it’s a nice day, I’d recommend walking to the museum, as you get to pass the cutest cafes, see some busy city life, pass Logan Square fountain and the Free Library of Philadelphia. Before I headed out on my journey, I grabbed a muffin at Capriccio at Cafe Cret. All muffins aside, the biggest treat of all is the free admission for college students during the week!
The founder of the museum, Albert C. Barnes, assembled a collection of early modern, impressionist and post impressionist artwork by some of the most renowned artists. Van Gogh, Renoir, Modigliani, Monet, Manet, Cézanne, and Matisse are just some of the many artists you’ll find.
The gallery starts off with one main room that spiders off in different directions. You’ll notice that each room is set up differently and the art isn’t necessarily grouped by artist or time period; rather, it’s organized by line, color and light to give off the most pleasing look. There aren’t descriptions for every painting, but The Barnes does have a free app that you can download for your own personal tour of the art.
Being in the gallery is probably one of the most incredible feelings. You are so close to such famous artwork, you can basically touch it (side note: DO. NOT. TOUCH.). Student, and fellow Campus Philly intern, Nakie Uzeiri joined me on my trip. She was equally as awestruck as I was. She said, “It was just the most amazing feeling in the world, I was just inches away from my favorite Van Gogh painting.” It truly is amazing, you get to see pieces of art you usually only see on a presentation slide or textbook.
P.S. Check out Nakie’s video from the day here:
If my Barnes recap has you wanting to visit, come join us and all other college students during Open Arts College Night at The Barnes on Friday, November 18th from 6-10. You can find out how to register for this free event here. At College Night, you’ll be able to explore the Barnes collection alongside live music, performance, short stories and a few surprises! Bonus: collection access is included! See you there!
P.S. If you’re hungry, here are some grub spots near the Barnes.
