Save the Fleisher Art Memorial

Thanks to a bad economy, traditional free art classes are imperiled. You can help.

by Pedro A. Ramos

My wife and I came to know the Fleisher Art Memorial in the same way that thousands of parents have over the years -- waiting in a very long line to secure a place for our children in Fleisher’s Saturday program. Eventually, I began to take painting classes myself. As a student and a parent, I have come to cherish Fleisher as one of Philadelphia’s great treasures, a community-based organization with an enduring commitment to access and quality. It is also a community in itself -- of teaching artists and staff and students who believe in the power of the arts to transform lives. I see it in the students’ work -- from on- and off-site, in the dedication of the teachers and the exhibitions in the galleries.

Recently, I embraced Fleisher as one of my civic responsibilities. From my fresh perspective as a member of the board of directors, I have gained an even deeper appreciation of Fleisher's extraordinary impact. Founded in 1898 as a neighborhood center, Fleisher touches lives throughout the region with exemplary programs that widen its students' view of the world, focus on youth development and nurture the careers of our best contemporary artists.

I have also learned about its financial challenges. Like most cultural nonprofits, Fleisher is having a particularly difficult year. Income from the Fleisher Trust has declined with the market value of the portfolio, and support from traditional funders has dropped as their portfolios shrank. Moreover, at the same time, Fleisher experienced dramatic cost increases in utilities, insurance and other operations.

At registration last week, when an overwhelming number of parents and adult students have usually made contributions when they enroll, we heard over and over again, "We can't do it this year." Times are tough for many people, and Fleisher has worked hard to hold the line on expenses in this particularly difficult year. But investment income will not recover in the near future. In fact, the amount available will drop again next year, while the cost of heat, light, ventilation and insurance will continue to rise. Fleisher needs more financial support so it can continue without having to cut deeply into or eliminate tuition-free programs.

In recent meetings with Fleisher's board leadership, I have heard time and time again, "We need to keep Samuel Fleisher's vision alive and keep it available to the adults and kids for whom Mr. Fleisher founded the school." Fleisher has served an estimated 200,000 Philadelphians over its 105 years (a majority in its tuition-free program). Now, we need those who value Fleisher's programs to step up to the plate and give back to an institution that has given so much to Philadelphia.

If you've never attended a class at Fleisher, you probably have a neighbor or friend who has. Fleisher deserves public support -- not just from the thousands who have come through its doors, but also from citizens who value "a place full of offerings," as the late Louis I. Kahn, a Fleisher alumnus, used to call it.

To show your support to an institution that makes a real difference in the cultural landscape of the city, join me in making a contribution to Fleisher today.

For more information, or to make a contribution, contact Fleisher Art Memorial Executive Director Thora Jacobson at 215-922-3456 ext. 314. Checks can be mailed to Appeal for Support, Fleisher Art Memorial, 719 Catharine St., Philadelphia, PA 19147.

(From the Department of Homeland Disclosure: CP editor in chief Howard Altman's children also attend Fleischer Art Memorial.)

Pedro A. Ramos, Esq. is a member of The Samuel S. Fleisher Art Memorial board of directors. If you would like to respond to this Slant or have one of your own (850 words), contact Howard Altman, City Paper editor in chief, 123 Chestnut St., third floor, Phila., PA 19106 or e-mail altman@citypaper.net.

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