Sam Feinstein, Group ’55 and

Midcentury Abstraction in Philadelphia

September 26, 2020 – January 24, 2021

In 1955, a group of Philadelphia painters, architects, musicians, and dancers organized a series of exhibitions and public forums across the city, presenting their work as a catalyst for vigorous public dialogue about the role of art and science in the postwar era. Led by Sam Feinstein, the artists became known as Group ’55.

This multi-venue initiative involves three exhibitions: Sam Feinstein: Immersive Abstraction and Group ’55 and Midcentury Abstraction in Philadelphia at Woodmere, and Sam Feinstein: The Early Years at Springside Chestnut Hill Academy. The exhibitions are presented in collaboration with Guest Curator and distinguished art historian Barbara Wolanin, and Patricia Stark Feinstein, who has overseen Feinstein’s archive of Group ’55 material. In addition, the Delaware Art Museum is presenting Layered Abstraction, which is on view through January 17, 2021 and includes the work of Group ’55 artist Margo Allman.

Thursday, September 24

Online Exhibition Opening

Tune in for an online opening reception via Zoom at 7pm, Thursday, September 24. Before the exhibitions at Woodmere and SCH Academy officially open to the public on September 26, join Woodmere’s Director Bill Valerio and special guests in celebrating all three exhibitions. This is a free event, but registration is required. Registrants will receive a confirmation email containing the Zoom meeting link.

Exhibition-Related Events

September 26 | Music at Woodmere presents Jazz of the 50s

October 15 | Online Members’ Tour

October 24 | Art Workshop: Boats and the Harbor: A Still Life (at SCH Academy)

October 29 | Lecture: Louis Kahn and Group ’55 by Izzy Kornblatt

November 5 | Lecture: Group ’55 and the Philadelphia Abstract Artists

January 9 | Family Scavenger Hunt (at Woodmere & SCH Academy)

Image: Untitled, 1959, by Sam Feinstein (Courtesy of the Samuel L. Feinstein Trust)