Philly Chit Chat

Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show Celebrates Creativity, Talent and This Year’s Award Winners

The Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show celebrated a major milestone this year — its 50th anniversary! The annual show returned to the Pennsylvania Convention Center, bringing together 195 talented artists and craftspeople for a weekend filled with creativity, beautiful handmade works of art and a little Philadelphia history.

From stunning jewelry and colorful glass to ceramics, textiles, furniture and wearable art, the show offered visitors an opportunity to meet the artists, hear the stories behind their creations and shop for truly one-of-a-kind pieces.

Here’s a little history you might not know: The Women’s Committee of the Philadelphia Museum of Art traces its roots to 1883, when 27 women, including Elizabeth Duane Gillespie, a great-granddaughter of Benjamin Franklin, formed a committee to support the museum. Gillespie had also helped organize the Women’s Pavilion at Philadelphia’s 1876 Centennial Exhibition. Today, the Women’s Committee continues that philanthropic tradition, organizing the Contemporary Craft Show and The Philadelphia Show: Antiques, Art, Design.

Over the years, the Craft Show has contributed more than $15.3 million to the museum, helping support its programs and initiatives. That’s quite a legacy!

Now here’s a fun Philadelphia connection!

To commemorate the show’s 50th anniversary, woodworker Ryan Jones of Roots & Jones created a limited-edition collection of just 50 handcrafted wooden pens, each with a very special connection to one of Philadelphia’s most famous landmarks.

The pens were made from wood salvaged from a hackberry tree that once stood near the Rocky statue at the base of the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps. The tree was removed in August 2026, but thanks to Jones, a little piece of its history lives on.

Each year, outstanding artists are recognized for excellence in their respective fields. Congratulations to this year’s honorees!

Louise K. Binswanger Prize for Best Artist New to the Show: Jody Graff

Prize for Excellence in Jewelry: Xinia Guan. Judges: Katharine Padulo and Louis Padulo.

Best of Show ($1,500): Laura Fortune. Judged by Doug Bucci (r). Sponsored in memory of Fifi Fleming and Mary Lee Lowry.

Congratulations to all the winners: Full List

• Eric Berg Memorial Prize for Excellence in Metal: Bill Ristine. Judges: Shannon Tomanovich and Phillip Scarpone.
• Louise K. Binswanger Prize for Best Artist New to the Show: Jody Graff. Judges: John Binswanger, John Garrett and Jill Garrett.
• Cohn Family Trust Prize for Excellence in Glass: Andrew Iannazzi. Judge: Jonathan Cohn.
  

Prize for Excellence in Jewelry: Xinia Guan. Judges: Katharine Padulo and Louis Padulo.

Fifty Years of Supporting the Arts

What began five decades ago has grown into one of Philadelphia’s beloved annual cultural traditions, bringing artists and collectors together while raising money for the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

If you’ve never attended the Contemporary Craft Show, put it on your calendar for next year. Whether you’re an avid art collector, searching for a special gift or simply enjoy seeing beautiful things, it’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon in Philadelphia.

And remember, when you purchase something directly from an artist, you’re not just buying a beautiful object. You’re supporting their creativity, talent and years of dedication to their craft.

Congratulations to the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show on 50 years! Here’s to the next 50!

Sorry I didn’t get this post up over the weekend, I had it in draft. BUT I had put the photos on CBSPhilly, and my Social Media. Hope you were able to make it, it’s always great!!

Socially yours, xo HughE

Woodmere Celebrates Philadelphia’s Arts Community at Annual Gala, with a Fashionable Tribute to Mary McFadden

Art, fashion and philanthropy came together in Chestnut Hill on Saturday, October 3, 2026, as Woodmere museum hosted its annual gala, The Party, at the museum’s beautiful new Maguire Hall.

The festive evening brought together Philadelphia’s arts supporters, philanthropists and community leaders to celebrate Woodmere’s mission of preserving and showcasing the work of Philadelphia-area artists.

This year’s gala honored Julie and Jim Alexandre,

along with artist Syd Carpenter and Steve Donegan, recognizing their contributions to Philadelphia’s vibrant arts community.

The evening also offered guests an opportunity to enjoy one of Philadelphia’s newest cultural treasures. Maguire Hall opened in November 2025, following the transformation of a historic 19th-century mansion into a museum dedicated to Philadelphia artists, which includes the Marion Boulton “Kippy” Stroud Gallery (l).

The 17,000-square-foot building features 14 galleries displaying more than 500 works of art, significantly expanding Woodmere’s exhibition space.

Here’s something I especially love about Maguire Hall. Remember the magnificent Boyd Theatre at 19th and Chestnut Streets, the Art Deco movie palace that was largely demolished in 2015?

Thanks to the preservation efforts of Friends of the Boyd, several original architectural treasures were saved, including decorative mirrors, chandeliers and lighting fixtures dating back to the theater’s early years.

Rather than disappearing into storage, some of these beautiful pieces have found a permanent home at Woodmere. Historic Boyd lighting fixtures have been incorporated into Maguire Hall’s dining room, while restored Art Deco mirrors and additional lighting can be ad

Another wonderful story coming out of Woodmere is its new collection of original designs by the late Mary McFadden, the internationally celebrated fashion designer with deep Philadelphia family connections.

250 of McFadden garments and accessories have found a home at Woodmere, including her signature pleated gowns, embroidered jackets, eveningwear and jewelry. (all these ladies are wearing Mary McFadden) Anne Standish (3rd from left), The Klorfine Foundation Director of Institutional Advancement at Woodmere

And here’s the fun part: Woodmere is developing a fashion lending library that will allow members at a designated membership level to borrow select McFadden designs for special occasions.

Imagine attending a Philadelphia gala wearing an original Mary McFadden creation!

McFadden, who died in 2024, was known for combining fashion with influences from ancient civilizations, art and architecture. She also became the first woman president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America.

The new collection at Woodmere encompasses more than spectacular evening gowns. It reveals the extraordinary breadth of McFadden’s design vocabulary, from silk T-shirts and elegant separates to embellished tunics, distinctive daywear, and dramatic couture. All pieces can be viewed on Woodmere’s website under the newly created web hub, The Mary McFadden Experience.

What a wonderful evening of friends gathering to celebrate the arts! This was only my second visit to Woodmere, and I have to say, I was really impressed. Talk about a hidden gem in Philadelphia! The galleries are beautiful, featuring an incredible variety of artwork by Philadelphia-area artists, with fascinating subjects and exhibitions throughout.

If you’re looking for an art museum that’s a little off the beaten path from the usual Center City destinations, don’t sleep on Woodmere! Located in Chestnut Hill, it’s only about a 25–30-minute drive from Center City, and here’s another bonus: FREE on-site parking! Admission is even free on Sundays. It’s absolutely worth the trip, and I know I’ll be back! (and there’s actually two museums at Woodmere, just a block apart.) You’ll thank me. xo HughE

Thirty years of fabulous hair, beauty and Philadelphia style! Giovanni & Pileggi, one of Center City’s best-known salons, is celebrating three decades in the beauty business.

Founded in 1997 by award-winning hairstylist Giovanni Mele (c) , the salon quickly became a favorite among Philadelphia’s fashionable crowd,

earning recognition for its exceptional styling, personalized service and commitment to making clients look and feel their best.

Today, Giovanni & Pileggi continues its tradition of beauty and style at 308 S. 12th Street in Washington Square West.

Fall plans are filling up, and Giovanni & Pileggi has the accessories for every occasion on your calendar.

Friends and family were on hand to celebrate this momentous occasion.

Congratulations to Giovanni and the team at Giovanni & Pileggi on 30 years of keeping Philadelphia looking fabulous!

Fashion Meets Philanthropy: From Care to Cure at the Four Seasons

Fashion and philanthropy came together on Thursday, October 1, 2026, for the inaugural From Care to Cure at the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia. The elegant evening marked the launch of the Women’s Cancer Initiative at Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center, with guests gathering to support this important new initiative through their generosity.

The evening began with cocktails and mingling, followed by dinner, a special program and a fashion show featuring Boyds Philadelphia. Guests gathered to celebrate fashion while supporting advancements in women’s cancer care and research.

The event brought together Philadelphia’s philanthropic and fashion communities for an evening dedicated to raising awareness and supporting the fight against women’s cancers.

A highlight of the evening was a fashion show presented and sponsored by Boyds Philadelphia, showcasing the latest fall fashions.

Guests enjoyed an evening of style while supporting an important cause.

Another wonderful Philadelphia soirée bringing together the city’s fashion and philanthropic communities to make a difference.

Proceeds directly support the Women’s Cancer Initiative at Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center.

Thanks to PCC Team Photographer Andre Flewellen for shooting this event.

Socially yours, HughE

Cabaret by the River: An Elegant Evening at Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum

An evening of music, philanthropy and timeless elegance unfolded along the Delaware River on Saturday, October 3, 2026, as Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum hosted its 33rd annual Cabaret by the River fundraiser.

This year’s featured entertainer was acclaimed pianist and vocalist Billy Stritch, whose remarkable career includes a 25-year collaboration with legendary entertainer Liza Minnelli, as well as touring with Tony Bennett as his pianist and musical director. Stritch brought a touch of Broadway glamour to the intimate riverside celebration.

The sold-out black-tie affair welcomed guests for cocktails, gourmet dining, a live auction and a special cabaret performance, all set against the spectacular backdrop of one of the Philadelphia region’s most treasured historic estates.

John Vick, Executive Director of Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum, addressed guests during the evening, thanking them for their generous support and their commitment to preserving the historic estate, its magnificent gardens and its rich cultural legacy for future generations.

The annual Cabaret by the River is a wonderful reminder of how Philadelphia-area philanthropy brings people together to celebrate and preserve the region’s extraordinary cultural treasures.

And there’s still time to experience Andalusia this fall! The historic property remains open for its 2026 season through November 13, with garden visits, historic house tours and a special Open Saturday on November 7. It’s a beautiful destination for a leisurely autumn afternoon, just north of Philadelphia.

Another favorite event I love covering at Andalusia is its annual Garden Party & Kentucky Derby celebration, held each spring. Guests gather among the spectacular gardens overlooking the Delaware River for cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and an afternoon of festivities before watching the Kentucky Derby live on a giant screen. It’s always a fashionable and fun way to celebrate the Run for the Roses while supporting this historic treasure.

The 2027 celebration is in the works! While the date and ticket prices have not yet been announced, you can check Andalusia’s official Garden Party page for updates and ticket information as it becomes available.

Check out more photos from this event at my CBS Philadelphia column. Hope to see you there!

Thanks to Andalusia for providing PhillyChitChat with photos from the cabaret event. Shot by Mark Stehle Photography

Socially yours HughE

Ardmore Day Celebrates 75 Years of Community Spirit on the Main Line

Downtown Ardmore came alive on Saturday, October 17, 2026, as the Ardmore Business Association celebrated its 75th anniversary with Ardmore Day, a festive afternoon of shopping, entertainment, food and family fun in downtown Ardmore. Special guests included FOX 29’s Bob Kelly, Philadelphia Eagles mascot Swoop and Eagles cheerleaders.

The free annual celebration, centered around Schauffele Plaza, featured the popular Ardbark Dog Parade and Costume Contest, a classic car show, a family corn maze, bumper cars, live music and activities for all ages.

The Ardbark contest will be judged by local businesses with a special connection to animals: Ardmore Animal Hospital, Main Line Urgent Vet, Ruff House Dog Center and VEG ER, along with longtime ABA board member Harry Althouse, formerly of Harry’s Treasures.

Local restaurants, merchants and businesses joined the festivities with food, sidewalk sales and special activities, showcasing the vibrant small-business community that makes Ardmore such a popular Main Line destination.

Congratulations to the Ardmore Business Association on 75 years of supporting local businesses and bringing neighbors together.

Ardmore Day was a wonderful reminder of the importance of shopping local and celebrating the communities that make our region special.

The children’s Halloween costume was well attended with Dracula taking the top price.

For car enthusiasts, a Vintage Car Show took place on Rittenhouse Place .

For ABA President Nina Greberman, the 75th anniversary is an opportunity to recognize the organization’s history while celebrating the people who continue to make it relevant today.

After 75 years, the Ardmore Business Association continues to advocate for local businesses, answer questions, bring businesses together and create events that connect the community. Ardmore Day is a celebration of that history and a look ahead to what comes next.

I can’t wait to head back to Ardmore and do some holiday shopping. I’ve discovered there is plenty of parking.

ABA Annual Holiday Tree Lighting

Friday, November 27 at 6:00 PM | Schauffele Plaza, Ardmore
Join the Ardmore Business Association for one of our favorite holiday traditions — the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting!

Bring the family and get ready for a little holiday magic as we welcome Santa & Mrs. Claus arriving on a firetruck! Watch Santa light up our Christmas tree and help us kick off the holiday season right here in Ardmore.

Enjoy FREE hot chocolate and cookies!

It’s a wonderful opportunity to gather with friends and neighbors, support our local community, and make some special holiday memories together.

Art, fashion, and philanthropy came together Friday evening, October 16, as the Barnes Foundation welcomed Philadelphia’s cultural leaders, philanthropists, artists, and fashionable social crowd for its annual Barnes Art Ball on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

With a nasty storm threatening, because really, hasn’t that been the theme of 2026, the VIP cocktail party was moved indoors at the iconic museum on the Parkway, but I was able to grab a few shots before the rain drops.

This year’s celebration was inspired by Noguchi to Asawa: Designing Postwar America, the Barnes’s fall exhibition highlighting the extraordinary influence of Japanese American artists on midcentury art and design.

Congrats on Jo Tiongson-Perez Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at The Penn Museum on her recent Emmy win: for the Penn Museum’s video project around the making of the Ancient Egypt and Nubia Galleries produced in partnership with Maestro Filmworks.

The exhibition is on view through January 10, 2027, giving visitors plenty of time to experience it.

Beyond the glamour, the Art Ball raises vital funds supporting the Barnes Foundation’s educational programs, exhibitions, collection care, and community initiatives.

Dinner by CONSTELLATION CULINARY GROUP

Decor by Susan Norcross, The Styled Bride

Another fabulous Philadelphia soirée bringing together philanthropy, culture, and community in support of education and the arts.

Socially Yours, HughE

Philadelphia’s Design Community Is Going Revolutionary for the 2026 Beaux Arts Ball

Following the unforgettable 2024 celebration at Lynnewood Hall, the Beaux Arts Ball returns in honor of America’s 250th birthday. Celebrating the nation’s diversity, unity, and creativity, the event brings together Philadelphia’s design community for an extraordinary evening of dancing, celebration, and stepping into another era.

On Saturday, October 24, Philadelphia’s creative community, including architects, designers, artists, educators, students, and supporters of the arts, will gather at Girard College for the 2026 Beaux Arts Ball, hosted by AIA Philadelphia and DesignPhiladelphia.

Known for blending architectural history, satire, and high fashion, the Beaux Arts Ball has celebrated themes like “Lunacy!” and the 2024 theme, “All That Is Gilded Is Not Gold.” This year’s theme, “Be Revolutionary: America Turns 250,” invites guests to channel iconic figures, historic movements, or revolutionary ideas, from Benjamin Franklin to Beyoncé. Classic black tie is always welcome!

Saturday, October 24, 2026
6 PM to 11 PM
Girard College, Philadelphia
INFO AND TICKETS CAN BE FOUND HERE

Proceeds benefit DesignPhiladelphia’s K-12 Design Education program,which is dedicated to significantly increasing access to design education for K-12 students in
Philadelphia.