Philadelphia will welcome a new cultural landmark this September with the opening of Calder Gardens, a space celebrating the legacy of Alexander Calder. Situated on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, near the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation, the 1.8-acre site blends art, architecture, and nature in a uniquely immersive experience.
Designed by Herzog & de Meuron with landscapes by Piet Oudolf, Calder Gardens features galleries, sunken gardens, and meadows. The architecture avoids traditional forms, instead carving into the ground to create unexpected spaces that harmonize with the natural surroundings. This innovative design presents Calder’s iconic mobiles, stabiles, and paintings in ways that inspire reflection and discovery.
Juana Berrío, the newly appointed Senior Director of Programs, will lead initiatives that connect Calder’s art to the community through performances, wellness activities, and events. Alexander “Sandy” Rower, Calder’s grandson and head of the Calder Foundation, described the project as “a space designed to nurture introspection and personal growth through art.”
Blending creativity, tranquility, and cultural significance, Calder Gardens promises to become a must-visit destination. Tickets will go on sale later this year—don’t miss the chance to experience this extraordinary addition to Philadelphia’s art scene.
All images courtesy of HERZOG & DE MEURON
