PHILADELPHIA — Described by its architects as “not a museum” and “not a building,” Calder Gardens is a fascinating subterranean space on the historic Benjamin Franklin Parkway. This new addition to Philadelphia’s “Museum Mile” showcases a rotating collection of Alexander Calder’s iconic mobiles and “stabiles.” The project, developed over more than a decade with a $90 million investment, involved the creative talents of architects Herzog & de Meuron and Dutch garden designer Piet Oudolf. The structure, concealed beneath a reflective surface, integrates with the surrounding landscape of 37,000 perennial plants.
Visitors to Calder Gardens experience a unique journey, starting with a descent past a ticket desk into an underground world. The design includes a series of architectural puzzles, inviting guests to engage with Calder’s work in a personal and sacred way, as envisioned by Sandy Rower, president of the Calder Foundation. Without traditional museum labels, the space encourages a direct and emotional connection with the art, echoing Calder’s own words about his creations: “It is simply beautiful.”
On its opening day, the Gardens hosted a vibrant parade, with programming director Juana Berrío emphasizing that the space aims to connect visitors to the present moment and encourage curiosity. Local artist Mike Cool described the experience as “an underground oasis,” reflecting on the layered connections within the city that the art evokes. However, some visitors expressed disappointment over the limited number of works on display, questioning the value of the $18 admission fee.
Calder Gardens has sparked mixed reactions, both online and among art critics. While some praise its innovative approach, others, like Michael J. Lewis in the Washington Post, critique its detachment from the surrounding city context. The space also features a secluded alcove containing works from Calder’s artistic family, adding to its unique character but also contributing to a sense of disconnection from Philadelphia.
The opening of Calder Gardens comes during a challenging period for Philadelphia’s cultural scene, marked by leadership changes and institutional shifts. As the city navigates these transitions, the question remains whether Calder Gardens represents the future of art engagement here. With upcoming commissions from artists like Raven Chacon and Cecilia Vicuña, the space promises exciting developments, yet its ability to resonate with the public amid these uncertain times is still being evaluated.
