Lenfest Plaza

Lenfest Plaza at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is one of Philadelphia’s newest open-air gathering spaces.

Located on a half-block stretch of Cherry Street, in front of PAFA’s Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building, Lenfest Plaza features space for rotating student exhibitions and a striking public art installation by famed artist Claes Oldenburg.

The plaza also includes a stage, a three-part serpentine bench, mosaic pavers, a platform for temporary sculpture, plantings, displays, lighting, and tables for outdoor dining.

Paint Torch

The predominant attraction at Lenfest Plaza is the 53-foot tall Paint Torch designed by world-renowned American artist Claes Oldenburg.

A massive, illuminated paintbrush, the Paint Torch is Philadelphia’s fourth large-scale public sculpture art by Oldenburg – the most of any other city in the world.

Insider Tip

Keep an eye out for local food vendors at Lenfest Plaza and grab a bite to eat on-the-go.