A Centennial Study of Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show
Semester: Fall 2024
Faculty Advisor: Matthew Feliz
Field Site: Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show
Field Supervisor: Sharon Strine
Praxis Poster:
Lily Wallis Final RSFAS POSTER
Further Context:
As my internship with the Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show (RSFAS) comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on the rewarding experience of preserving the history of this iconic event. Founded in 1928 by local art students who displayed their works on clotheslines in Rittenhouse Square, RSFAS has grown into the oldest outdoor fine art show in the United States. Today, it serves as a vibrant platform for over 140 professional and student artists, showcasing diverse media twice a year in the spring and fall. During my internship, I focused on uncovering and narrating the show’s evolution, ensuring its legacy is both preserved and celebrated as it approaches its centennial.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my experience was conducting detailed historical research using archival materials. Working with old binders, photographs, board agendas, and meeting minutes, I pieced together the story of RSFAS’s development and its enduring impact on the arts community. The process of cataloging, analyzing, and summarizing these documents deepened my appreciation for the dedication and vision of those who have shaped and sustained this nationally recognized event over the years.
In addition to archival work, I conducted interviews with past and present board members, artists, and community partners to gain firsthand insights into the show’s influence and background. These conversations revealed the greater meaningful connections between RSFAS and the Philadelphia community, highlighting how the event has fostered artistic talent, enriched local culture, and brought people together year after year.
Furthermore, learning about and witnessing firsthand the behind-the-scenes operations of RSFAS provided me with a nuanced understanding of managing a long-standing cultural event, from coordinating logistics to nurturing relationships within a broader artistic network.
Looking back on my time with the Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such an enduring and beloved tradition. While my work specifically focused on examining how the show has developed into the cherished bi-annual event it is today, I am also proud to have been part of a project that genuinely honors creativity and community. I hope the Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show continues to inspire and unite artists and audiences alike for years to come.