Fleisher Art Memorial

Having taken a few classes, I find it to be a very mixed bag. On the one hand, it is heartwarming to have a place that strives to offer a variety of art courses and to be welcoming to everyone. On the other, it is more like a community center where the goal is to offer some activity, but not instruction. The stakes are kept very low, too low to create a real sense of accomplishment. The students are a wide variety of people, although I was a little surprised to run into "I got a friend who likes urban sketching, do you want to go sketching with him" type of offer.

We hosted our wedding here and cannot say enough good things about Fleisher as an event space. The staff, especially the event coordinator Ana, were easy to work with, flexible when we had changes or requests, and responsive to questions. Staff were also incredibly helpful with load in and load out of our DIY wedding, a huge help when faced with the daunting pile of things we had to move in and out. The event spaces are also beautiful and unique compared to anything else we considered. We had our ceremony in Palumbo Park right next door with chairs provided by Fleisher. Our cocktail hour took place in the art galleries, which still had art in them from a recent exhibition, a cool touch for our guests to explore. And the sanctuary truly felt magic when we walked into the decorated room full of our favorite people. We had never been to a wedding venue like this, and we likely won’t again. Beyond our event-specific experiences, we also appreciated that Fleisher is a community institution helping make art more accessible. I even took a drawing class at Fleisher during the wedding planning process. Truly a hidden gem in the city of Philadelphia!

What a hidden gem! Seriously - this was one of my favorite spaces I've ever photographed in for a wedding. The location is great - there is a close by parking lot. If you need spots for portraits, just go outside and pick a direction. Is it raining? Totally fine - luckily the inside is GORGEOUS. The staff was nice, happy and helpful! I can't wait to be back. Ig @moonhoneyphotography

Probably the best "Art Memorial" of all time. I've taken 6 adult classes here and they have always been great. The teaching staff are passionate and exceptional. Its a one of a kind place.

Hidden gem in Philly, so excited to keep taking classes at Fleisher, my 10 week class in the fall was a great way to meet a diverse group of people, as a young person who only recently moved to the city

My Alma Mater as a young artist of nine years old in Saturday sculpture classes. Attended drawing and still life classes most recently. Staff is great. Relaxed atmosphere.

Flemish Er is an incredible art school, and to top it all they throw themselves to be a strong part of the community. If you have an opportunity attend one of their many festivals .... worth every minute you spend there!

What a amazing quaint small museum. This interesting museum has beautiful art and they rent space for functions out to the public. Please support if you can!!!

This place is magical! I am on my second Mosaics class series with Carol, and she could not be more delightful! I love classes where we get the proper tools and then can create as we please, and her class is perfect for this. I also just took a one-time soft pastel class and love this as well - I've always been intimidated by drawing and this class made me much more confident after just one day. The other students are very fun to chat with as well - everyone is very kind and supportive of each others' creations. I am super impressed with the variety of classes offered here - there are mediums offered that I haven't even heard of. I also want to shoutout the staff for being so responsive and accommodating. I started a class that didn't turn out to be the right fit, and the staff quickly processed a course transfer. I really couldn't be happier here, and the classes have been therapeutic and so much fun. Highly encourage students of all levels to try a class!

We went to a holiday art market here and it was so great. Incredible selection of art and other gifts. My friends and I didn't ration our funds enough because by the time we got to the back of the sanctuary we couldn't spend anymore even though we wanted to. Amazing space inside and there is a really nice outdoor garden with beautiful sycamores.

This place is so amazing! A real hidden gem in Philly. My boyfriend and I went to a Sofar comedy show here and we were shocked by how insanely amazing and historic the venue was. You really get transported back into a different time with all of the sculptures and paintings in the walls of this old church. The ceilings are so high, it almost feels like you're outside, when in reality you're tucked in between buildings. I will definitely be coming back to learn more about the history as well as see the various exhibitions that they have in the rest of the building. You can also hold weddings and other events in this room, which is pretty sweet.

The Sanctuary at Fleisher Art Memorial is the most splendid wedding venue I think I have ever seen. The architectural details, the lofted ceilings, the stained glass, the statuary... it's somehow both cozy and occult, if that's a thing. The space mixes diminutive gothic church with speakeasy, and comes up with perfect. I had the pleasure of photographing for Hazel Photo Weddings in the space with Birchtree Catering. I can tell you it was great fun for a photographer. And the guests seemed wowed as well. Definitely check this place out. I slept on it for ten years of my life in Philly, and I feel shame for that. Shame shame. So don't be like me, and go get your occult speakeasy vibes on.

My friend had a wedding here toward the end of winter, And I was instantly impressed by the beauty and history of the place. It's tucked away in a cozy Bella Vista neighborhood so it's a good secret place to bring people to on most occasions. it has an eclectic selection of art as you may expect. but it also has a beautiful little chapel room in the back. so make note of it if your looking for a location for a wedding that goes beyond the traditional. Now that I know It has some fair and reasonably priced art lessons I Think that I might just have to check out the website and see about enrolling in something. so Chances our I'll be updating on this review once I do.

What a remarkable gem in South Philly - and a perfect event space for the MANNA PA fist annual Guac-off. Friendly staff at reception, clean restrooms, small kitchenette. Good stuff! You can even have a wedding here.

This place makes me happy. I love being around other creative people and learning a new craft. There are classes for people of all different skill levels, so don't be afraid to sign up if you're a beginner!

I took an Alla Prima Oil Painting class here a few years ago, and it was just perfect. The atmosphere, the quiet, and especially the instructor! I loved my work from that class. I do some figure modeling for one workshop at Fleischer now, and it's one of my favorite places to be! Everybody there that I know is ALWAYS friendly and I'm 100% comfortable working there.

I am addicted to Fleischer! The school offers workshops and tuition-free art classes for people with all sorts of artsy interests. I've taken the ceramics and drawing classes and they have been a blast! The teacher, David Berger, for drawing 1 is hilarious! He really makes people feel comfortable in the class and does his best to go around the room and help each person individually. The class is large though, since it is a prerequisite for some other advanced classes. For Drawing 2, I had Hiro and he was awesome as well. He was super encouraging and started each class by giving us a print out of a technique that we'll try that day. Then the rest of the class is spent drawing still models or live models. The teacher goes around to each person and spends about 5 -10 minutes help giving that person individual instruction. That sort of attention isn't what you'd expect at a "free-tuition" class. It's wonderful, really. Ceramics is also a really great class. I had Shawna's class, and it was a lot of fun. We were basically just worked on whatever we wanted, whether throwing or hand building. I got a bit obsessed with throwing bowls and now have a box full of them. On average, I've spent only about $70 on supplies per class. I highly recommend taking a Fleisher membership if you're taking a class. I think it's like $30 a semester, a small price to pay for art classes from such talented teachers.

This place is held very near and dear to my heart. The classes (children and adult) are incredibly creative and educational, free or fairly cheap for what you get out of it. The classes are taught by professional artists/teachers that definitely know their stuff and have a few tricks up their sleeves. The faculty and staff are amazing people! It is highly recommended you sign up to become a member because that helps them support classes being free or cheap in the future. There are three galleries located in the main building and another one in the Works on Paper building. The gallery spaces hold really great shows, and the Challenge exhibition is a juried competition held every year with artists from the surrounding area submitting work in hopes of being included in the final twelve. The main building has been recently renovated (last year), adding an elevator to make the building handicap accessible, there is also a Romanesque church sanctuary still intact, and amazing to work in or hold events. There is a seperate Works on Paper building that houses the etching, litho, and photo studios.

Classes in __________ (insert medium of choice here)? - check Art Gallery? - check Chapel and event space for weddings, showers, fundraisers, etc? - check Super great staff and faculty? - check check checker-oo The facilities are unparalleled, the cost way undervalues the benefits, and I have nary a negative thing to say about the Fleish. Learn anything you want in a supportive and amazing atmosphere - it will immediately feel like home.

I've taken 2 digital photography classes here in the last 2 years, and really enjoyed them. They were good mixes of guided assignments, open critique, and access to someone with specific questions that may come up. There were interesting people from all walks of life in both classes, though I suspect I was one of the youngest in both. Compared to what a 2 month class at UArts would cost, this place is a steal! Of course it may not be able to provide as many things as a place like UArts, but if you're looking for a more laid back style class this is probably a good place to look. The courses that they offer are as varied as the instructors that they can find, and they're open to suggestions if there's something you're interested in that they don't have. A friend of mine took a free watercolor class here, and while she enjoyed it wished for more direction from the instructor, so if you're not sure give them a call and they can probably help guide you to a class that's right for you. The extra $30 bucks for a season membership also gets you into the Art Museum for free =)

I love this place. I took the class Stitching and Surface. I have taken other embroidery classes before and this was by far the best. The teacher really knows her stuff and is able to give instruction on details about the art form that really make it easier to do. She has a very realistic curriculum of projects. She is great at answering questions. You can tell that she really loves to teach and she really cares that you learn. I hope all other art classes at Fleisher are as good as this one. I am excited to continue taking more and more classes there. Also, while I can afford the tuition, I think it is really important that they give a lot of tuition assistance to those who cannot. All too often adult art classes are populated by people with deep wallets. I think there is a great mix of students in this class. The whole building has a great vibe. I find it really uplifting just to walk in the door. And, I am not the kind of person who uses the words vibe or uplifting. Way to go Fleisher.

This place is magical. It's perfect for weddings or business dinners if you are looking for something different from boring hotel ballrooms. Also exhibitions manager Jose Ortiz Pagan is an absolute genius!

Fleisher is amazing. I recently returned here after a 20 yr. hiatus. My mom took me here on Saturdays as a child for drawing and painting. I took Intro to Photography With Sharon Gunther and Portraiture with Amber Johnston. I had taken photography in college but that was back when film was popular. Both classes taught me so much about my camera and photography in general. The instructors are knowledgeable and very hands-on. What's great about these classes is that you don't need a fancy digital slr to participate. They class can be adapted according to whatever digital camera you own. These classes are affordable and there are many class times (and types) to choose from. There are a range of different ages and I think that contributes to the great atmosphere these classes offer. I would recommend Fleisher to anyone.

Fleisher's art classes are a great option for people who are either dabblers or ex-art students. They have real teachers from colleges and universities who either volunteer or receive a small stipend to teach art-school style classes either for free or for a small tuition. I am particularly fond of the open figure studios in which you are able to draw from a model for a small fee. The teacher peeks his or her head around and gives you feedback if you want it. They usually do a good job of keeping the pervs out. This is not a peep show, folks. Other great classes include printmaking, lithography, photography, sculpture, ceramics and screen printing. Some of these are even free! They also offer workshops that help artists develop their careers and shows for their students.

Fleisher is a great place to learn something new or continue learning and developing your skills. I've taken many classes at Fleisher. Some were free and others weren't and the quality in both is impressive. I've tried some new things that I loved learning about and practicing with the instruction of great teachers. I've taken some of the skills I've learned and developed more on my own. Fleisher is a short walk form downtown, if you're close to the South Street area. If you're not, there's a parking lot. Sometimes it gets full during peak times, but there is usually good street parking available if you get caught without a space. Once you get inside, the staff at the front desk is very friendly and helps you with any questions you might have. They also feature exhibits by local artists and students. These are always a treat to see and change often. If you don't take a class, definitely check and see what artwork they have on display! They're free to see.

As a collector of rare books, I have always loved the Fleisher! It is an international icon and deserves more attention!!!

Every "semester" I take at least one class or workshop at Fleisher. There is a great variety of subjects to choose from and I have only had good experiences with the teachers. I would recommend this place for anyone that needs something besides work in their life!

High caliber art exhibitions, free classes for adults, workshops for kids, classes in many media and a beautiful sanctuary. It's a great community space for art lovers.

I am very pleased to have met Fleisher Art. We are grateful for the services they provide. I took a Saturday Oil Painting class and my child took a digital photography class. We are returning for more. Ms. Louise is great! You may or may not get her spunk but either way soak up all the knowledge and skill you can grasp. The photog class from my vantage point has really been an asset and I plan to send her to other classes to open her up to art a little more. Its good for your brain. There is a moody artist at the front desk bit but its not a problem to get through her to get to the classes.

I went here when I was little and now my youngest attends. The best programs for children of all ages.

Fleisher Art Memorial is a great venue for anyone wanting to learn more about art in a non-competitive atmosphere. I attended FAM during my years at Temple University and miss my time there and the great instructional programs and classes. I have nothing but love for FAM. Please support this great program. One down side is the parking but it may have been remedied since I attended.

I can not speak to the classes, but as far as renting the space for an event, DO NOT DO IT. You may think you are getting a deal, however, this is not true. Problems that existed before(plumbing issues, cleanliness etc) will be charged to you after the event. They see this as a time to fix all their issues without having to pay for it. Also, if your event is a weekend night the staff does not want to be there. They will treat you and your guests very poorly. The staff was some of the most miserable cranky people I have ever met. They did not allow us time to properly clean and forced us out of the building. Guess what? That's an extra 200 dollars for the space not being clean. Again, I can not speak toward the art classes I am sure they are great. But do not rent this space out. The event planner is nice to your face and then a complete nightmare via email.

I've been coming Fleisher for 5 years now, and I continue to go because it is a great place for art lovers. It is also a wonderful place to talk to people from all walks of life. Sign up for a tuition free art classes early, as they run out of spots almost immediately! There is a great variety to chose from. You must be a member to take tuition free courses, but purchasing a family membership is the most economical, because you and your family/friends can all split the cost!

This place is an absolute gem! I'm taking two classes at Fleisher. I moved to Philly 6 months ago and am looking to connect with artists -- it turns out that I'm in the right place! In both of my classes, my instructors are also professors at UARTS, so they seem up on the knowledge of subject. My fellow students are friendly as well and I enjoy the diversity among us. I am really glad that Fleisher will be a part of my next 5 months! If you are thinking about taking a class, don't be shy, just sign up and show up! Everyone has been so nice and the place has a very positive vibe throughout.

This place is amazing. Last night I held my 50th birthday party in the sanctuary and all my guests were blown away with the beauty of that room. If you are looking for a unique venue for a special occasion you need to look into Fleisher. This place set the tone for a wonderful night. Grisha Zeitlin is wonderful to work with, he gave me lots of great options and the place looked beautiful.

I took a free photo class here about a year ago and really enjoyed it. I can't say the instruction was particularly good, but it was awesome to be in a dark room with a bunch of other people interested in photo - AND only have to pay a chemicals fee and supply my own paper, etc. I have a bunch of friends who love taking classes here - check it out!

free classes for the love of art and community!!!!!!!!!!!!! what a concept. what a place!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! love my ceramics class!!!

a amazing asset to the community. classes are very professional and instructors are top notch.