Welcome to The Print Center, a unique institution in Philadelphia dedicated to fostering the appreciation and growth of photography and printmaking as vital forms of contemporary art. Since its inception, The Print Center has been a hub for artists, enthusiasts, and the community, offering a rich array of exhibitions, educational programs, and resources.
A Legacy of Art and Innovation: About The Print Center
Founded in 1915, originally as The Print Club, The Print Center boasts a long and distinguished history as one of the first venues in the United States dedicated to prints. Its original mission was to promote the “dissemination, study, production, and collection of works by printmakers, American and foreign.” This commitment to the art form led to a significant donation of its print collection to the Philadelphia Museum of Art in 1942, forming the foundation of their print department.
Over the years, The Print Center has showcased an impressive roster of artists, from masters like Mary Cassatt and Pablo Picasso to contemporary visionaries such as Kara Walker and Kerry James Marshall. In 1996, the institution embraced its evolving role by changing its name to The Print Center, signaling its dedication to serving both its members and the wider community in Philadelphia and beyond.
Explore Exhibitions and Engaging Programs
At the heart of The Print Center’s mission is its commitment to exhibitions. Each year, visitors can experience nine to ten solo exhibitions and two to three group shows within its galleries and in public locations. These exhibitions highlight emerging talents, celebrate established artists, and explore current trends in printmaking and photography.
The Print Center is also renowned for hosting the Annual International Competition, the oldest competition of its kind in the nation. This prestigious event attracts artists from around the globe, offering opportunities for solo exhibitions, inclusion in the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s permanent collection, and monetary awards.
Education is a cornerstone of The Print Center’s outreach. Through its diverse educational programs, including Gallery Store Talks, Critique & Conversation sessions, and The Contemporaries events, The Print Center provides platforms for learning, discussion, and engagement with topical ideas, collecting practices, and evolving artistic technologies. The award-winning Artists-in-Schools Program further extends this commitment by bringing visual art education to underserved students in Philadelphia public schools.
Your Gateway to Contemporary Prints: The Gallery Store and More
The Gallery Store at The Print Center offers an unparalleled selection of contemporary prints in Philadelphia. By showcasing and promoting the work of emerging and established artists from local, national, and international scenes, the store directly supports the artistic community and provides art enthusiasts with unique pieces.
Beyond exhibitions and education, The Print Center provides additional avenues for engagement. Self-guided tours are readily available for school groups, and guided tours can be arranged by appointment. The beautifully renovated carriage house and garden are also available for rentals, offering a unique setting for cocktail parties, lectures, and receptions amidst art and culture. For those seeking experience in the arts, The Print Center offers structured internships in arts administration, curatorial work, and gallery management.
Support and Connect with The Print Center
As a nonprofit organization, The Print Center relies on the generosity of individuals to sustain its exceptional programming. Donations are crucial to its ability to continue serving the community. Membership offers another vital form of support, providing benefits to members while directly contributing to The Print Center’s mission. Planned giving, through wills, trusts, or estate plans, represents a significant way to ensure the future of this important cultural institution.
Plan Your Visit to The Print Center
The Print Center welcomes visitors free of charge and is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Located at 1614 Latimer Street in Philadelphia, PA, it is easily accessible.
Directions to The Print Center at 1614 Latimer Street, Philadelphia, PA, highlighting its location near Center City and accessible routes from major highways and surrounding areas.
Detailed directions are available for visitors arriving from various locations including Center City, New York/Northern New Jersey, Southern New Jersey, Delaware and points South, and points Northwest and Southwest of Philadelphia. The nearest parking is conveniently located just one block away on Latimer Street.
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Hours: Free and Open to the Public 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday through Saturday
Address: The Print Center 1614 Latimer Street Philadelphia, PA 19103
Contact: 215 735.6090 | [email protected]
Explore the world of printmaking and photography. Discover The Print Center.
