The Woodmere first opened in a Chestnut Hill mansion in 1940. The space is provided by the former home of Charles Knox Smith, a Philadelphia oil magnate. It includes nine galleries and salons that host changing regular and special exhibitions each year, as well as works from the permanent collection.
Today the Woodmere’s permanent collection has more than 2,500 works, many of which are by renowned Philadelphia and regional artists. It continues to grow. Recent acquisitions include Antonio Pietro Martino’s painting, Winter; John Pierce Barnes’ oil, Sunset; and John Lear’s painting, Bus Stop.
The museum caters to all visitors, and particularly families and children. A special children’s day includes guided tours for children and visits between artists and kids. Stories in Art introduces children to a work of art via storytelling. And KidCinema screens kid-friendly movies in the Millard Children’s Gallery.
Woodmere Art Museum Information
- Public Transportation: Good (the L bus from the Germantown Ave and Bells Mill Rd. stop is steps from the museum)
- Handicapped Accessibility: Good
- Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Sunday 1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Closed Mondays
- Admission: Free
- Membership: Individual membership is $35; Students (w/ID) are $20; Households are $60. Every member receives personalized membership cards; a 10% discount in the Museum Store; Artivities, Woodmere’s programming guide; a new members’ reception and tour; invitations and announcements for members-only events; eligibility for George D. Widener Memorial Studio art classes; reduced admission to workshops, programs & concerts; and access to the Edward M. David Library & Research Center
- Other Benefits: At the Patron level ($500), members receive an invitation to the annual reception at the Director’s residence. At the Connoisseur level ($1,000), members receive an invitation to a lunch with the Patricia Van Burgh Allison Director & CEO.
