Calder Gardens Opens with a Visionary Space for Reflection
As originally announced her on artsX, Philadelphia’s newest cultural hub is ready for its debut. Calder Gardens opens to the public on Sunday, September 21, introducing a new episode in Philadelphia’s cultural narrative. On the Benjamin Franklin Parkway between 21st and 22nd Streets, this 1.8-acre destination is a multisensory, meditative journey through the world of artist Alexander Calder. This is where sculpture, landscape, and architecture come together. Calder Gardens opens as a space of immersion, curiosity, and quiet revelation.
A collaborative effort between the Calder Foundation and the Barnes Foundation, this innovative project fuses curatorial depth with institutional support. The structure itself, envisioned by Herzog & de Meuron, is a subterranean architectural marvel—modest in form, yet profound in presence. The soft shimmer of the north-facing metal façade plays in tandem with the warmth of its wooden southern side, echoing Calder’s own bohemian roots. Above, a living, breathing landscape of native perennials designed by Piet Oudolf offers evolving movement and mood, embracing visitors in a seasonal rhythm that mirrors Calder’s own kinetic philosophies.
Inside and out, visitors will encounter rotating installations of Calder’s mobiles, stabiles, paintings, and works on paper—many of which are rarely seen, and some on public display for the first time. True to Calder’s spirit, the works are presented without didactic labels, inviting deeply personal interpretation and experience. With Calder Gardens now open, the opportunity for introspective art appreciation has a new home in Philadelphia.
Calder Gardens Opens with a Celebration of Art, Music, and Movement
The celebratory weekend begins a day before the official launch, with the “Chaos and Kisses” Grand Opening Parade on Saturday, September 20, from noon to 2 PM. Conceived by avant-garde artist, composer, and musician Arto Lindsay, this free public event is a vibrant gift to the city. Organized by Juana Berrío, Calder Gardens’ Marsha Perelman Senior Director of Programs, the parade originates at LOVE Park and winds its way to Maja Park, culminating in a concert by the legendary Sun Ra Arkestra.
The parade brings together a high-voltage roster of Philadelphia-based creatives, including Pig Iron Theatre, Almanac Dance Circus Theatre, Mad Beatz Philly, and Brazilian percussionists PHonk!, echoing the collaborative and boundary-pushing spirit that Calder championed throughout his career. As Calder Gardens opens, this dynamic celebration makes clear that the institution is not only honoring the past but looking firmly toward a future of creative fusion.
Programming at Calder Gardens will be year-round and diverse: think self-guided audio walks, sonic performances, movement-based interpretations, horticulture-centered activities, and reflective readings. With each event designed to elevate mind, body, and spirit, the opening weekend is just the beginning of an ever-evolving platform for public engagement.
Calder Gardens Opens as Philadelphia’s Newest Cultural Landmark
As Calder Gardens opens, it joins the illustrious company of Parkway neighbors like the Barnes Foundation, Rodin Museum, and Philadelphia Museum of Art, reinforcing the city’s status as a world-class arts destination. In lieu of guided paths and instructional plaques, Calder Gardens offers something radical in its simplicity: a place to feel, to observe, and to connect—with art, with nature, and with oneself.
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