Art without walls: The future of Philly’s alternative art spaces

Why the Painted Bride, a staple in Philadelphia's art community for nearly 50 years, is selling its iconic building in Old City to pursue a more nomadic vision.

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The Painted Bride building was denied historic designation, opening the door to a sale of the iconic Old City building. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

The Painted Bride building was denied historic designation, opening the door to a sale of the iconic Old City building. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

The Painted Bride, a staple in Philadelphia’s art community for nearly 50 years, is selling its landmark building in Old City to pursue a more nomadic vision. On this episode of The Why, WHYY reporter Peter Crimmins tells us why the organization is prepared to give up its building — featuring an iconic mosaic by Isaiah Zagar — to preserve its mission and what it tells us about the future of alternative art spaces in the city.

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