A series of exhibitions and events, entitled "Celebrating Rittenhouse Square," highlighted the PAA as a focal point of Philadelphia cultural history. This initiative was a look inward, towards what is special and unique about the PAA, and outward, towards the relationship of the PAA with its neighbors on Rittenhouse Square.

 

The title of the  first exhibition“In Ever Greater Measure,” was appropriated from an annual report celebrating 50 years at the PAA by president Laurence Eldredge: “So, as we pass into our second half century, I envision our beloved Art Alliance, enriched with new leaders and with legacies and other gifts, continuing in ever greater measure to extend cultural horizons and bring new beauty to those who will open their eyes to receive it.” With this cultural mandate in mind, “In Ever Greater Measure” encompassed over 800 historical artifacts, documents, photographs, and other ephemera that concentrated on the history of Rittenhouse Square and the legacy of the PAA within that community. By  examining significant events from the history of Rittenhouse Square, the exhibition provided an understanding how the area has transformed from a residential area to that of a significant cultural center in Philadelphia. This contextual approach provided a fresh perspective by viewing the Square and the PAA through the lens of the community and their social and cultural interests.

 

Through a chronological structure, this exhibition led viewers through relevant and notable moments as well as larger social and cultural changes as it relates to the history of PAA. By providing this historical overview, it provided an understanding the need for the institution, but also how the Alliance has responded and adapted to its community over time. 

 

The exhibition galleries were divided by important turning points in PAA history:

 

• 1915-1925 represents the earliest moments of formation and development of the PAA including its incorporation and the involvement of its founder Christine Wetherill Stevenson and its earliest presidents. At its earliest home at 1823-25 Walnut Street, a salon, music room, and artists’ studios comprised the main activities of the organization.

 

• 1926-1944 represents its continued growth as a destination point for Rittenhouse Square community at its present location at 251 S. 18th Street. Upon the purchase of the former home of Samuel Price Wetherill in 1926, the PAA expanded its programmatic activities to include a dining area for members, as well as rooms to rent on its third floor. Members enjoyed The Circulating Pictures Club, which allowed members to rent and/or purchase works of art for their homes.

 

• 1945-1976 is a period when well recognized artists in the literary, performance and visual arts sought the PAA as an important destination. By World War II, the PAA established and earned a reputation as one of the most notable cultural institutions on the East Coast.

 

• 1976-present. In 1976, the PAA also celebrated the America’s 300th through an exhibitions that included notables Christo, Robert Indiana, and Ed Ruscha. Responding to the changing needs and demands of its audience, the Art Alliance also hosted more experimental art forms such as video and installation art as well as experimental screen plays and new compositions by young composers.

 

“In Ever Greater Measure” : 90 Years at the Art Alliance was sponsored by Lincoln Financial, The Independence Foundation, Arcadia Foundation, Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation, and the Philadelphia Cultural Fund.