Woodmere is pleased to announce Arc of Promise, a landmark exhibition that explores how Philadelphias artists have envisioned America as an idea, from the nations founding to today. On view from June 20 through Nov. 8, Arc of Promise is presented in celebration of the United States 250th anniversary. Drawing largely from Woodmeres permanent collection, the exhibition spans the 1790s to the present, bringing together paintings, sculptures, and works on paper that reflect the ever-renewed ideal of the American experiment. Works depicting maps and flags, alongside social and allegorical representations from the 18th through the 21st centuries, are placed in dialogue, revealing how Philadelphias artists across generations have grappled with questions of national identity and freedom. The exhibitions title is inspired by the late Philadelphia-born artist and Germantown native, Jerry Pinkney (1939-2021), whose concept of the arc of promise acknowledged Americas painful histories, slavery, displacement, and injustice, while affirming the nations capacity for renewal. Pinkneys vision, grounded in optimism and equity, frames the exhibitions central premise: that the promise of America is not fixed, but continuously reimagined by those who believe in its unfolding potential. Pinkneys works, including Jackie Robinson as a Brooklyn Dodger (1982), first issued as a 20-cent commemorative stamp, will be on display, as well as historical works such as Portrait of Mary McLeod Bethune, a sculptural bust of the Black education advocate by African American artist Selma Burke, now recognized as the woman behind the design of the American dime (Dec. 31, 1900 - Aug. 29, 1995). Alongside historical holdings from Woodmeres collection and several important works on loan will be pieces by Philadelphia artists living and working across the city today, including protest photography by Harvey Finkle and a mixed-media, handcrafted necklace by artist and member of the Lenape Nation of Pennsylvania, Teri Hislop (b. 1962). At the heart of the exhibition, Henry Bermudezs Miss America (2019) is presented as a key focal work offering a layered vision of America through themes of migration, mythology, and identity. It will be juxtaposed with Hiram Powers America, a marble bust by the neoclassical sculptor, which portrays 19th-century America as a Greek goddess. The figure was Powers representation of Americas newfound freedom; the 13 original states were reflected in the stars on her crown. Arc of Promise also serves as the centerpiece of Woodmeres participation as the Philadelphia anchor for Church200, a nationwide celebration marking the 200th anniversary of the birth of leading landscape painter Frederic Church and honoring his lasting impact on American art. Woodmeres celebrated painting, Sunset in the Berkshire Hills (1857), which was part of founder Charles Knox Smiths collection, and in its original, magnificent frame, will be a highlight of the exhibition. The museum will host extensive programming on Church, drawing art historians, curators, and collectors of American art from across the country. We are proud to contribute to this moment of national reflection, as the United States marks its 250th anniversary. In Philadelphia, a city with deep histories tied to the countrys founding, Arc of Promise brings together works across generations to consider how the idea of America has been shaped, challenged, and reimagined throughout history. This is a chance to showcase the breadth of our collection, from scenes of historic upheaval in Joseph Hirschs Boston Tea Party to illustrations, to the museums dear friend, Jerry Pinkey, whose legacy still resonates, stated Woodmere director William R. Valerio. About Woodmere Nestled in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia, Woodmere offers a unique museum experience that centers on the art and artists of Philadelphia. Vibrant exhibitions explore the achievements and social ideas of Philadelphias artists in the broader context of American art; Woodmere prioritizes diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in its collecting, programming, and admission policies. In November 2025, Woodmere opened a second site, Frances M. Maguire Hall for Art and Education, alongside its existing Charles Knox Smith Hall. Marking Woodmeres most significant expansion since its founding in 1910, the opening of the second site adds 14 new galleries showcasing Woodmeres permanent collection, featuring American Impressionism, figurative arts, modernism, and Philadelphias jewelry arts. The expansion also introduces a childrens art and education studio, along with new public spaces for events and programs. For more information, visit www.woodmeremuseum.org.