
SOLD OUT – Art, Architecture and the Dream of Democracy Tour & Social
November 10, 2023 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Join us for a tour featuring the architecture and the art within two of Philadelphia’s most iconic buildings, PAFA’s Historic Landmark Building and Philadelphia’s Masonic Temple. The Art, Architecture and the Dream of Democracy Tour connects the histories and struggles of our country from its founding to today.
The tour begins at PAFA’s iconic Historic Landmark Building, where stories of industrial innovation, artistic excellence and civic engagement are all inscribed in the stone and paint of America’s first museum building. The large-scale installations in “Rising Sun: Artists in an Uncertain America” interact with and respond to the architecture in surprising ways. Installations by celebrated American artists explore themes of equality, free speech and other tenets of democracy.
From PAFA, we will walk to the historic and majestic Masonic Temple, where we will continue exploring themes of democracy through the lens of Freemasonry in both the architecture and the artwork on display. The current exhibition, “Embodying Masonic Values” illustrates everyday reflections of who Freemasons are and the values for which they stand, including equality for all and community service. The museum features artifacts related to democracy and Freemasonry, including Benjamin Franklin’s Masonic sash, a Masonic apron thought to be made for George Washington and a replica of the Rising Sun Chair, which Washington sat in while presiding over the creation of the U.S. Constitution.
The evening will conclude with refreshments in Masonic Temple’s breathtaking Foyer Under the Stars. Light hors d’oeuvres and Prosecco, wine, beer and soft drinks will be served.
Tickets are $65 for Pennsylvania Masons, PAFA and AAMP Members and PAFA Alumni; $75 for non-member guests.