Assignment:

Fully develop and design an exhibit related (but not limited to) the cultural, historical, social and material culture of the city of Philadelphia as a place, a symbol, an idea, an experiment etc.

2200 Square Feet

In 1987 Keith Haring came to Philadelphia to paint with the youth of Philadelphia and New York in the Point Breeze Neighborhood of Philadelphia. At the corner of 22nd and Ellsworth he painted the outlines of his iconic dancing figures. The kids then took red, blue yellow and teal paint and filled in the figures how they wished. This collaboration was organized by the Brandywine Workshop to bring art to the neighborhood during the Constitutional Bicentennial. The Brandywine Workshop has been organizing partnerships between young people, artists, and the community at large since the mid-1970s.    

The big idea behind this exhibit is that Keith Haring’s 1987 mural epitomizes how partnerships between artists and local organizations can impact a community. We will delve into the legacy of Keith Haring’s mural including its collaboration with Philadelphia’s Brandywine Workshop. Alongside this we will be showcasing artists and organizations working with the community today and working with an artist in residence to create a work of art with visitors for their community. This exhibit will further the legacy of the mural by acting as an extension of its original vision and intention.

Exhibit Overview

Floorplans + Elevations

Gallery Mock-ups

The gallery is laid out to have the look and feel of an active artist’s studio. This is created by incorporating an open floorplan and using mobile partitions, that offer a unique fluidity to the space. The graphic treatment is influenced by Haring and the mural it self.

Design Overview

Construction Drawings