The Fabric Workshop and Museum: A Hub of Contemporary Artistic Innovation in Philadelphia

Situated in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Philadelphia, The Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM) is an internationally acclaimed contemporary art institution dedicated to fostering innovation and collaboration in new materials and media. Founded in 1977 by Marion Boulton “Kippy” Stroud, FWM began as a space where artists could explore fabric-based art processes, but has since expanded far beyond its original focus to support creative experimentation across sculpture, installation, video, painting, ceramics, architecture, and more. To learn more or plan a visit, explore their official website at fabricworkshopandmuseum.org.

A Rich Artistic Legacy and Mission

The Fabric Workshop and Museum was created to encourage artists at all career stages to collaborate closely with highly skilled in-house technicians and studio staff. This unique Artist-in-Residence program provides the technical tools and creative freedom to push boundaries and realize ambitious projects that often stretch beyond conventional artistic media. Initially, the workshop focused on functional screen printing on fabric but expanded to include non-functional and conceptual works, embracing a broad interpretation of “fabric” and material innovation.

FWM’s mission is succinctly captured in their motto: “Collaborating with artists, revealing new possibilities.” The museum maintains a vibrant dialogue between process and final artwork, showcasing the evolution of art from conception, experimentation, and fabrication to presentation.

Extensive and Diverse Permanent Collection

Over the decades, the Museum Collection has grown to include more than 5,000 objects created by over 400 artists worldwide. This rich archive documents pioneering movements in contemporary art and features luminaries such as Louise Bourgeois, Ann Hamilton, Anish Kapoor, Carrie Mae Weems, and many others. The collection is a tapestry of large-scale installations, sculptures, drawings, paintings, hand screenprinted fabrics, textiles, and experimental materials like wire mesh, fiberglass, and horsehair.

The collection not only highlights completed works but also preserves samples, prototypes, photography, and video documentation of the creative process, providing a rare glimpse into artistic innovation and collaboration.

Artist Boxes and Archives: A Time Capsule of Creativity

One of FWM’s unique offerings is its comprehensive archive of Artist Boxes—carefully curated containers filled with sketches, tests, notes, swatches, correspondence, and prototypes assembled by resident artists at the completion of their projects. These boxes act as a historic time capsule, offering invaluable insight into artists’ working methods and project development.

Complementing the Artist Boxes is a vast photographic and video archive documenting artist interviews, technical workshops, and fabrication techniques. Scholars and researchers can request access for study, emphasizing FWM’s role as a center for education and preservation of contemporary art heritage.

Educational Programs and Community Engagement

FWM has a longstanding commitment to education and community outreach. Beginning as a vocational training program teaching printing and textile skills, it now offers a diverse array of educational initiatives including public lectures, tours, in-school presentations, and apprenticeships aimed at young people. These programs inspire creativity, provide technical training, and encourage artistic exploration within Philadelphia and beyond.

Visitors to FWM can also tour the on-site print studio (by appointment), witnessing firsthand the process of art creation from fabrication to finished piece, enhancing appreciation of contemporary artistic practice.

Location and Visitor Information

Currently located at 1214 Arch Street, near the Philadelphia Convention Center, FWM’s galleries are temporarily closed, with plans to reopen general admission on September 26. Meanwhile, the FWM Store remains open with regular hours, and tours of the Print Studio are available. Visitors are encouraged to check the Events page for up-to-date visit options and program announcements.

Nearby Philadelphia Cultural Institutions

When visiting the Fabric Workshop and Museum, immerse yourself in the rich cultural offerings of Philadelphia by exploring its renowned museums, including:

• The Academy of Natural Sciences, America’s oldest natural history museum.
• The African American Museum in Philadelphia, dedicated to exploring Black history and culture.
• The Barnes Foundation, famous for its extraordinary collection of Impressionist and Modernist art.
• The interactive Franklin Institute, a leading science museum.
• The Rodin Museum, home to an impressive collection of Auguste Rodin’s sculptures.
• The Betsy Ross House, a historic landmark tied to early American history.
• The Wagner Free Institute of Science, an educational science museum.
• The Woodmere Art Museum, specializing in Philadelphia-area artists.
• The historic Wyckoff House Museum, the oldest extant structure in NYC.
• The University of Pennsylvania’s Penn Museum, focused on archaeology and anthropology.

The Fabric Workshop and Museum stands as a beacon of contemporary artistic innovation, blending tradition with experimentation to create and display groundbreaking art. Its collaborative Artist-in-Residence program, extensive permanent collection, unique archival resources, and commitment to education make it an essential cultural institution in Philadelphia’s thriving arts scene.

For full details on exhibits, programs, and visitor information, please visit the official website at fabricworkshopandmuseum.org.

Visit The Fabric Workshop and Museum

• Name: The Fabric Workshop and Museum

• Address: 1214 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

• Phone Number: 215-561-8888

• Email Address: info@fabricworkshopandmuseum.org

• Map Location: View Location on Google Maps

Ticket Information

• Admission is free with a suggested donation of $5.

• All ages are welcome.

• Advance registration is encouraged but not required for individuals or small groups (fewer than 15 adults or 10 children).

• Group visits of 15 or more adults or 10 or more children require advance reservation.

General Admission Information

• Open Wednesday to Friday from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

• Closed on Monday and Tuesday and major holidays including New Year’s Day, MLK Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.

• Offers onsite tours and workshops for groups of four or more with reservations required for larger parties.

• Located near Reading Terminal Market and the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Accessibility Information

• Wheelchair accessible entry and facilities.

• For all accessibility requests and inquiries, contact info@fabricworkshopandmuseum.org or call 215-561-8888 ext. 254; relay and voice calls welcome.

• Encourage use of public transportation; limited street parking available nearby.

Other Visitor Information

• The museum collaborates with contemporary artists on exhibitions and artist residencies, showcasing innovative works and materials.

• Visitors can participate in interactive workshops, enjoy immersive exhibitions, and shop at the museum store for unique artist-made items.

• Nearby parking lots include 1201 Filbert Street, 1100 Arch Street, 1224-42 Arch Street, 1200 Market Street, and 45 N 10th Street (Fashion District).

• The museum embraces education and community engagement through programs and events.