Making a Classic Modern: Frank Gehry’s Master Plan for the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Making a Classic Modern: Frank Gehry’s Master Plan for the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Presented for the first time in this exhibition is the comprehensive design for the renewal and expansion of the Philadelphia Museum of Art by internationally celebrated architect Frank Gehry. Best known for the expressive sculptural forms of buildings such as the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, Gehry’s approach to this project is dramatically different and virtually unique. It focuses on the transformation of the interior of our main building through the renovation of beloved spaces like the Great Stair Hall, dramatic improvements to how our visitors will enter and move through the Museum, and the creation of a substantial amount of new space for the display of more works of art and for a new Education Center.

Gehry’s design is the embodiment of creative stewardship. It reflects a deep sympathy for a much beloved architectural landmark and, at the same time, an understanding of how this facility needs to be changed to continue to serve the needs of our visitors and our community. It is, in sum, an inspiring blueprint for the future of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and one in which we believe everyone should have an interest.

Learn more about this great building and how this project proposes both to conserve and improve it. Carefully detailed, large-scale models, architectural drawings, photographs, and videos are featured in the exhibition.

Exhibition Minutes

Exhibition Trailer Watch Video >>



Frank Gehry Interview Frank Gehry and his team have been developing and refining plans for the Museum’s renovation and expansion since 2006. In this candid and revealing interview, Gehry shares his vision for the building’s future. Watch Video >>



The Museum and the Community As the Museum moves forward with plans to renew and improve its landmark building, one goal is paramount: to make the Museum the cultural heart of the great city of Philadelphia and a place that is welcoming to all. Watch Video >>