Angie Walls
(photos by author)
Published in Too Shy to Stop Magazine, January 9, 2009

In the City of Brotherly Love, you’ll find much more than history and some of the Mid-Atlantic’s top culinary treats. Notably the American city with the largest collection of public art, Philadelphia thrives with an actively growing group of writers and artists. Travel into the heart of Philadelphia, and you’ll be inspired by the unique art that extends beyond the walls of the Art Museum and into its lively streets.

In Center City, you can visit the famous LOVE statue, the definitive icon that illustrates William Penn’s notions of tolerance, peace, and community. Walk down towards the Suburban Station, and you’ll observe the luminous metal leaves of the “Life Lines” sculpture.

Or perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to stay in room 414 at the downtown Westin Hotel, which two dozen of Philly’s top talent have collectively filled with original drawings, sculptures, and handmade furniture. First Fridays are a major part of their nightlife, when Old City’s dense network of art galleries opens their doors to hundreds of art lovers. Philly is, without a doubt, a destination that kindles all kinds of free thinkers, and provides an environment where “starving” isn’t necessarily associated with “artist.”

No matter how far your feet take you, you’ll discover the fire to ignite your creative spirit in many places in Philadelphia. Whether you need the space to create the next greatest masterpiece or gain the inspiration to unleash your creativity, you’ll find it all here. Below are a few of the best local finds where you can immerse in the city’s colorful yet diverse artist community.

Edgar Allan Poe House

In just a week, fans will be celebrating the 200th birthday of Edgar Allan Poe. For a little writing inspiration, take a journey into the historic home of the literary genius. You’ll be able to explore the preserved room where he wrote, and also see a number of portraits, original letters, and illustrations for “The Raven.”

The Perfect Place to Write

If you happen to be searching for a place with the right ambiance for writing, Chapterhouse Café is a must. Besides having a delectable selection of specialty coffees and fresh pastries, this quiet, little café has plenty of space and walls covered with local paintings. Right in Philly’s largest art scene, Olde City Café is another great casual place to enjoy people watching and defeat writer’s block.

Magic Gardens

Formed by a large part of Philly’s artists and art-loving community, the Magic Gardens was built to promote the legacy of art of the city’s famed mosaic artist, Isaiah Zagar, who created most of South Street’s extraordinary mosaic murals. Intriguing at first sight, the Magic Gardens are a fascinating labyrinth of exotic textiles, woodcarvings, and ceramics.

South Street Mosaic Murals

In countless places, South Street displays many beautiful mosaics and murals for the public. They are intended to educate, inspire, and offer deep meaning to bypassers. Many of the wall murals are part of a citywide program to overshadow the overwhelming amount of graffiti plaguing big cities.

For more images from Angie’s adventure, visit theToo Shy to Stop photo pool.