Introduction
Moore College of Art and Design, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a small, private, and independent college that specializes in art and design education. Founded in 1848, it has been dedicated to educating women in the arts for over 170 years. However, it wasn’t until 1989 that the college officially became co-educational. Despite its small size, Moore has a rich history and a wealth of fascinating facts that make it a unique and special place. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most interesting fun facts about Moore College of Art and Design.
The First Women’s Art School
Moore College of Art and Design is recognized as the first and only visual arts college for women in the United States. Its founder, Sarah Worthington Peter, believed that women deserved the same educational opportunities as men, and she was determined to create a place where women could receive an art education. In 1848, she founded the Philadelphia School of Design for Women, which later became Moore College of Art and Design.
In its early days, the school focused on teaching women practical skills that would allow them to support themselves financially. The curriculum included courses in drawing, painting, design, and needlework. Over time, the school expanded its offerings to include a variety of art and design programs, including graphic design, fashion design, and photography. Today, Moore College of Art and Design is a leader in art and design education, offering both undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Notable Alumnae
Moore College of Art and Design has a long list of notable alumnae who have gone on to achieve great success in the art and design world. One such alumna is Kay WalkingStick, a painter and mixed media artist who is known for her landscapes and abstract works. WalkingStick graduated from Moore in 1959 and went on to earn an MFA from the Pratt Institute in New York City. Her work has been exhibited in museums and galleries throughout the United States, and she has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to the art world.
Another notable alumna is Mary Cassatt, an American painter and printmaker who is best known for her depictions of mothers and children. Cassatt attended Moore College of Art and Design for two years before studying in Paris with Edgar Degas. Her work has been exhibited in museums around the world, and she is considered one of the most important female artists of the 19th century.
Campus Architecture
Moore College of Art and Design’s campus is home to several architecturally significant buildings. The college’s main building, built in 1890, is a beautiful example of Victorian Gothic architecture. The building features intricate stonework, gargoyles, and other ornate details that make it a unique and visually striking structure.
Another notable building on the Moore College of Art and Design campus is the Widener Memorial Library, which was designed by the renowned architect Horace Trumbauer. The library, which was completed in 1896, features a stunning Beaux-Arts facade and houses an extensive collection of art and design books.
The college’s most recent addition is The Galleries at Moore, a contemporary art space that opened in 2012. The Galleries at Moore features four exhibition spaces that showcase the work of both emerging and established artists. The building’s design is a modern contrast to the traditional architecture of the college’s main building and is a testament to Moore’s commitment to both tradition and innovation.
Annual Fashion Show
Every year, Moore College of Art and Design hosts a fashion show that features the work of its fashion design students. The show, which is open to the public, is a chance for students to showcase their designs and creativity. The show has been a tradition at Moore College of Art and Design for over 70 years and has become one of the most anticipated events on the college’s calendar.
The fashion show is a major undertaking, involving months of preparation by students, faculty, and staff. Students begin working on their designs early in the academic year, and they spend countless hours perfecting their creations. The show itself is a professional production, complete with runway lighting, music, and professional models.
The fashion show is an excellent opportunity for students to gain real-world experience in the fashion industry. It also serves as a showcase for the college, attracting fashion industry professionals and potential students. Many of the fashion design students who participate in the show go on to successful careers in the fashion industry, and the show is an important stepping stone in their education and professional development.
Community Engagement
Moore College of Art and Design is deeply committed to community engagement and outreach. The college offers a variety of programs and initiatives that are designed to bring art and design education to underserved communities. One such program is the Young Artists Workshop, which provides art education to high school students from low-income families. The program is free of charge and offers students the opportunity to take art classes taught by Moore faculty.
Another community outreach program offered by the college is the Visionary Women Speaker Series. The series features talks by women who are leaders in their fields and who have made significant contributions to society. The series is open to the public and is designed to inspire and empower women.
Moore College of Art and Design also hosts a variety of community events throughout the year, including exhibitions, lectures, and workshops. These events are open to the public and are designed to engage and educate the community about the importance of art and design.
Conclusion
Moore College of Art and Design is a unique and special place with a rich history and a commitment to excellence in art and design education. Its focus on women’s education and its dedication to community engagement set it apart from other colleges and universities. The college’s beautiful campus, notable alumnae, and annual fashion show are just a few of the many reasons why it is a must-see destination for anyone interested in art and design.