Colorful abstract cityscape drawing with buildings, bridges, trees, a bicycle, and various geometric shapes using bright colors like red, blue, green, and orange.

Providing comprehensive arts education to our part of Philly

Our story

The Arts League is the neighborhood hub for arts education in West Philadelphia. Our contemporary art center champions intergenerational learning with a wide array of visual and performing arts programs, classes, workshops and residencies. We are committed to our relationships with surrounding schools, community centers, individuals and our neighbors. Historically dedicated to cultivating and sustaining new talent by way of offering consistent paid opportunities, professional development and exhibiting space to the broader arts community. The Arts League functions as an amplifier for creative voices of all backgrounds, providing the space for exploration, growth and joy.

“In 1967, a handful of West Philadelphia artists, art lovers and interested neighbors came together to form what is now the University City Arts League. Within two years, the group attained non-profit status, purchased a semi-detached four-story Victorian twin at 4226 Spruce Street, and began offering classes and programs. This spirit of innovation and commitment to creativity is still alive at the Arts League today.”

The Values that define us

We believe that cost, age, race, culture, sexual orientation, or infirmity should not be an obstacle to enjoying and learning from the arts.
We believe in the importance of the arts to enrich individual lives, to improve the quality of life in a community and, therefore, to serve as an important contributor in the community.
We believe that the arts can be a great common denominator in uniting diverse communities to explore shared artistic passion.

A person working with a pottery wheel, shaping a clay vase.

Our team

At the core of our mission lies a profound commitment to fostering a safe space for all individuals to grow within the arts. We believe that everyone, regardless of background or experience, should have the opportunity to explore their creative potential in a supportive environment. Many of our core team members are teaching artists, bringing firsthand experience and empathy to their roles. This enriches our programs and ensures that our community not only learns technical skills but also gains confidence and finds their unique voice within the arts. Through their leadership and dedication, we strive to cultivate an inclusive and empowering space where the arts can flourish and make a lasting impact on individuals and the broader community.