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Old City Jewish Arts Center
Rating Details »
Categories: Art Galleries, Religious Organizations [Edit]
Neighborhood: Olde City119 N 3rd St
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 574-9280
5 reviews for Old City Jewish Arts Center
What a homey space!
Like Cherie mentioned, it does feel like a gallery and a community center. I really enjoyed the exhibit that was displayed at the time. There is a bathroom that many used but its small, efficient, and clean. The food is delicious here. Welcoming company and yummy kosher marshmallow brownies!
5 stars for the great food and incredible hospitality, 3 stars for the art. This place REALLY knows how to make you feel welcome. walk past on a very cold First Friday night and you'll be greeted by 3 people holding trays of warm chicken noodle soup (kosher too) beckoning you to come in and enjoy a plate of food.
The food can be incredible for a quick bite too. Fresh rice salad, Gefilte fish sandwiches, veggie trays, rice krispie brownies, wine and so much more await your tastebuds. all of it is kosher cooking too.
Since it's the Jewish Arts Center all of the artwork is themed around it. You'll also notice the rabbi's, and if you walk in after nine you'll come across them having a special table side sabbath prayer. depending on your religious orientation the above may either really speak out to you, or you'll probably have no vested interest at all. But they definitely don't do it in a way that shoves any beliefs in your face, and it can be interesting to experience. Overall its a gallery that's worth checking out.
I happened to stop in the OCJAC one evening while strolling through Old City. I was invited in by a nice lady promoting the art show that was going on inside.
The art showing has some really nice pieces, including many works from one of the artist's "Burnt Series." These paintings consisted of dark, moody paintings that were partially burnt . Very cool.
Also, the food and drink (presumably Kosher) was delicious. Te oatmeal cookies and chocolate rice krispies were yum-tastic.
This is a great little art gallery on 3rd Street, north of Market. A friendly young woman beckoned for me and Kim P. to enter and enjoy their First Friday festivities. Honestly, Kim and I had no intention of going inside, since we were on our way elsewhere, but the girl was so friendly that we decided to stop in for a moment.
The brick walls make this place really warm and inviting inside, and the cookies and other First Friday fare were pretty cool, too. They featured two artists, one of whom had some really cool pieces, including painted canvases (almost like boxes) with holes burned in them and close-up black-and-white portraits that resembled clayboard etchings. I agree with Kim P. when I say, "Very cool."
This place isn't large, but none of the Olde City galleries really are. What sets this place apart is the welcoming environment and its connection to the community. They take part in the Olde City First Friday, which OCJAC calls "Shabbos First Friday," and they also have musical programs, concerts, classes, and workshops, in addition to their Jewish Art exhibitions. So next time you're out for First Friday, or you're just in the neighborhood and want to catch some cool art, stop by this place. You won't be disappointed.
It feels like part art gallery, part community center. I agree with the others that this place is incredibly friendly and welcoming. and the food was delicious! the art was interesting but not amazing, but I would definitely return to see the next exhibit. A for effort to these folks!