The Center’s newest grantees and Philadelphia’s cultural and civic leaders gathered at the Barnes Foundation on February 9, 2026, to celebrate the exceptional organizations and artists that make up our region’s vibrant creative community. With the support of $8.6 million in Center grant funds, these 32 organizations and 12 artists will engage audiences through dance, history, film, theater, visual art, and more.
“Artists help us reflect, connect, and imagine beyond the present moment,” our executive director, Christina Vassallo, said at the event. “They remind us of who we are, and who we can be. And the Center plays its part by supporting programs and events that spark curiosity and bring us together in meaningful ways.”
In her remarks, Donna Frisby-Greenwood, senior vice president of Philadelphia and scientific advancement at The Pew Charitable Trusts, spoke of Pew’s longstanding commitment to Philadelphia and enhancing access to public spaces and neighborhood anchor organizations. “The Center is a key part of Pew’s efforts to help cultivate a city and region where all residents can thrive,” she said.
Val Gay, Philadelphia’s chief cultural officer, echoed the importance of the arts and their contributions to "increasing quality of life for our residents and neighbors.”
Thom Collins, Neubauer Family executive director and president of the Barnes Foundation, talked about opportunities for collaboration in the Center’s new operating partnership with the Barnes, saying, “We share commitments to fostering new ways of thinking about human creativity; advancing arts, culture, and knowledge-sharing activities; and deepening conversations across a broad and diverse community.”
Siafa Lewis of CBS Philly visited the celebration and spoke with some of our grantees. Playwright Alba Martínez said it was “an incredible honor” that Philadelphia Theatre Company received a grant to produce her musical La Guagua 47. Pew Fellow John E. Dowell Jr. said his Fellowship felt like “you’re being supported, you’re being acknowledged for all the work you’ve done.” Watch the full CBS report here.
The night also included a screening of our video offering a look into our grantees’ creative visions and practices and previewing what they have in store for audiences in the months to come.
