Philadelphia’s cultural landscape will be transformed by the opening of Calder Gardens in September 2025. Designed as a sanctuary where art, nature, and architecture converge, this new institution will provide an immersive experience centered on the work of Alexander Calder, one of the most influential sculptors of the modern era. Featuring a building by the Pritzker Prize-winning architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron and lush gardens crafted by world-renowned Dutch landscape designer Piet Oudolf, Calder Gardens hopes to be a haven for contemplation and artistic engagement in the heart of Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
A New Cultural Institution in Philadelphia
Calder Gardens will present a rotating selection of masterworks from the Calder Foundation, offering visitors an opportunity to experience Calder’s mobiles, stabiles, and monumental sculptures in an environment designed to foster introspection and human connection. The institution is the result of a collaborative effort between the Calder Foundation, Philadelphia philanthropists, and the City of Philadelphia, with the Barnes Foundation providing administrative and educational programming support.
Philadelphia’s dedication to the arts has long been evident through its numerous museums and cultural institutions, and Calder Gardens will further solidify the city as a global arts destination. The interplay of sculpture, architecture, and natural landscapes will provide an innovative way to experience Calder’s work, making it one of the most unique art spaces in the world.
Juana Berrío Appointed as Senior Director of Programs
Adding to the excitement, Juana Berrío has been named the Marsha Perelman Senior Director of Programs at Calder Gardens. A highly regarded curator, educator, and arts programmer, Berrío will be responsible for developing public programs that enhance visitor engagement, including a dynamic mix of performances, events, and wellness activities that complement Calder’s art. Known for her work across the U.S. and her native Colombia, Berrío has held positions at prestigious institutions such as the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Walker Art Center, SFMOMA, and the New Museum.
Berrío expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I am thrilled to join Calder Gardens, a unique space that integrates art, architecture, and nature to invite self-reflection. I look forward to designing rich cross-pollinations between artistic and nonartistic practices, diverse communities, and between humans, flora, and fauna.”
A Vision Rooted in Calder’s Legacy
Alexander Calder revolutionized modern sculpture with his invention of the mobile, kinetic sculptures that move in harmony with their environment. His work blends playfulness, movement, and engineering, and Calder Gardens seeks to reflect these qualities by creating a space that inspires curiosity and contemplation.
Calder’s grandson, Alexander S. C. Rower, who serves as President of the Calder Foundation and Chair of the Calder Gardens Curatorial Committee, emphasized the institution’s broader mission: “Calder Gardens is an entirely new type of cultural institution focused on nurturing introspection and personal growth through the art and ideas of my grandfather.” He added that Juana Berrío’s expertise will bring fresh, dynamic programming to the space, ensuring it becomes a must-visit destination for art lovers.
A New Model for Arts Institutions
One of the most forward-thinking aspects of Calder Gardens is its collaborative model for sustainability and efficiency. By partnering with the Barnes Foundation for operational and educational support, the institution sets a new precedent for how museums and cultural centers can thrive through strategic partnerships.
Thom Collins, Neubauer Family Executive Director and President of the Barnes Foundation underscored the importance of Berrío’s role in shaping Calder Gardens into a vibrant cultural hub. He stated, “Juana Berrío brings significant cultural programming knowledge that will be instrumental in creating a place where art and nature merge in an exciting way.”
Calder Gardens: A Must-Visit Destination for Art Lovers
Philadelphia prepares to welcome Calder Gardens in September 2025, as one of the most compelling new art destinations in the country. The combination of Calder’s pioneering sculptures, Herzog & de Meuron’s architecture, and Piet Oudolf’s gardens will produce a remarkable experience.
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