Barnes Foundation, Philadelphia

One of the most exciting events in art news this summer is the opening of the new building housing Philadelphia’s famous Barnes Foundation’s collection of masterpieces.

Albert C. Barnes amassed a fortune in the early 20th century developing pharmaceuticals.  With the subsequent sale of his company, he became a passionate art collector through the guidance of his former high school classmate, painter William Glackens.  Barnes began his extensive collection with 20 paintings acquired by Glackens who was living and painting in Paris at the time.  The following year Barnes made a trip to Paris himself where he met Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse at the home of Gertrude and Leo Stein.

Bonheur Matisse

Founded in 1922 , The Barnes Foundation, is one man’s exquisite collection of art by masters of Impressionist and Modernist schools, both American and European artists, as well as ancient works from cultures the world over.  Due to the restrictive nature of seeing the collection, which prior to the opening was available for public viewing only twice a week and required a minimum of 2 weeks advance reservation notice, this exclusive collection has turned all eyes on the city of Philadelphia.

The staggering size of the collection (apart from its value) is practically unfathomable by today’s standards and includes the works of Renoir (181), Cezanne (69) and Matisse (59) as well as works by Degas, Manet, Monet, Modigliani, Seurat, Soutine, Picasso, and Rousseau. Much of the general public had remained practically unaware of its existence as it had previously been housed (and hung) in Barnes’ last residence where not surprisingly, there was difficulty viewing all of it.  Though it was considered controversial to alter Barnes’ original “ensembles” installation plan, the architects were careful to maintain the scale, proportion, and positioning of the works and the paintings now benefit from being seen in a larger and brighter format.

Rittenhouse Hotel

The Rittenhouse, one of the nation’s premiere hotels, located steps away from Rittenhouse Square, is offering two deals to take advantage of the new Barnes Foundation attraction.   The first option includes a two night stay with VIP accommodations and 2 VIP untimed tickets and audio guides to the Barnes.  The second option offers a one night stay, 2 VIP untimed tickets and audio guides to the Barnes plus an 8 course tasting dinner for two with a Barnes-inspired dessert and an artisanal cheese course at the hotel’s renowned restaurant, LaCroix.

Both packages are available for arrival beginning July 1.

www.rittenhousehotel.com

www.barnesfoundation.org