Philadelphia presents itself as a city where artists can not only do what they love as a career, but they can also live comfortably while doing so. Without the people who help network, teach and spotlight these artists, that may not be the case.
1. Carl David (above) is the president of David David Gallery, a gallery founded in 1910 that is currently in its fourth generation of family ownership. Located at 260 S. 18 St., David David Gallery specializes in American and European paintings, watercolors, drawings and sculptures of the 17th- through 21st centuries. In addition to running the gallery, David also helps network with local artists to help them find jobs in various fields of art.
2. Genevieve Coutroubis is the director of the regional community arts program at The Center for Emerging Visual Artists (CFEVA). Located at 237 S. 18 St., CFEVA coordinates a strong regional support system for local visual artists, helping to advance their careers. Coutroubis, a photographer, is dedicated to promoting social change through art. She has an extensive exhibition history and a long record of volunteer experience with organizations such as the AIDS Action Committee and Parent’s and Children’s Services.
3. Darla Jackson is the owner and general manager of the Philadelphia Sculpture Gym, located at 1834 Frankford Ave. in Fishtown. Philadelphia Sculpture Gym is to artists what a regular gym is to fitness buffs. With a monthly membership, artists are granted access to a wood shop, metal shop and a mold-making and casting area. The gym also offers classes and lectures on media like welding, woodworking and bookbinding.
4. Cristina Elena Guzman is the CEO of CEG Performing Arts Academy, which is situated on the second floor of 684 N. Broad St. CEG Performing Arts Academy is a youth development program committed to providing performing arts education, community entertainment and an appreciation for the cultural diversity in Philadelphia. The academy offers classes in dancing, singing, acting, modeling, pageant training and various musical instruments. Guzman also offers after-school programs and summer camps.
5. Jamie DeAngelis is the director of operations at Philadelphia Art Alliance (PAA), the city’s center for contemporary craft and design. PAA, situated at 251 S. 18 St., presents up to 12 exhibitions a year and hosts lectures, concerts, gourmet tastings and workshops for families and children. Founded in 1915 , it is the oldest multidisciplinary arts center in the United States and is devoted to presenting the work of emerging and established artists in Philadelphia.
– Text and images by Tyler Sablich and Maxwell Reil
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