This past November, the oldest art society in America, The Philadelphia Sketch Club, hosted its 165th annual gala. Each year, old and new members gather to honor a few of the nation’s best artists. Celebrated at this year’s gala were traditional multimedia artists Dick Ranck, Maureen Drdak, and Michael Gallagher. Their honoring was accompanied by free food, endless hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction to follow.
Do not be put off by the fancy sound of it — this non-profit puts forth its best attempt to curate a strong community for all artists. Patrons, workshops, exhibits, and membership opportunities all give artists the education and resources they need to develop. The club’s mission extends all the way back to its origins. Started by students of the late Philadelphia University of the Arts, their mission was to create a space for artists and students of art to have the resources and support needed to succeed.
The new President of the Board of Directors, Tiger Jaser, spoke at length about plans to turn the Philadelphia Sketch Club into not just a place of connection and practice for artists, but as a tool to build creatives up professionally and prepare them for the industry. In the coming year, they will introduce portfolio reviews, internship positions, career planning, membership sponsors, and even neighborhood events.
With older members seeking to modernize, it is a perfect time for artists and patrons to connect. While many Drexel students may not have the time for extracurricular pursuits that are so distant from their studies, the shift to hosting these more professional programs may be able to provide opportunities for students seeking a co-op in a creative industry or a senior thesis in an arts-related discipline. Connections made through the Philadelphia Sketch Club also have the potential to provide some early post-grad clarity for those attempting to enter the creative industry.
The president of the board also happens to be a teacher here at Drexel. When asked about what he teaches, he responded that his class “was basically a course for avoiding mid life crises.” Since he is in a position of leadership among artists, this is particularly important stuff to know. It goes deeper than industry and critique as well. They not only have a taste for art, but also emphasize its political importance. Especially as a tool for social change. Not only will you find artists and patrons among this community, but you will also find those who care about being an active member of the city and local life. One volunteer at the gala even ran a community garden in the community with some other attendees.
For creatives who feel uncertain, a support network run by people who do it for the love of the community is a great place to start. Membership opportunities include a newsletter and a discount, but there is no pressure for students to be members (workshops are cheaper for students than they are for members). Accessible art classes are few and far between, with most requiring members to pay for a whole package. This is not a problem for the PSC, which offers open studio workshops that are 15 dollars for non-members and nine dollars for students with proof of ID. The open studio sessions are open and encouraged for beginners, and they welcome all skill levels.
Their space can be found on South Camac Street. The first floor is a very antique space featuring hundreds of portraits; behind the reception area are stairs that lead to the larger gallery area, which features a huge selection of works by local artists that are continually being bought and sold throughout the various exhibitions they host all year. Their next exhibition opens Jan. 4. There is still time to register until Dec. 12 for those who may be interested in participating.