RISING TOGETHER

As assistant director of public programs at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) in Philadelphia, Lori Waselchuk is responsible for developing and facilitating public programs for the museum, including adult classes, tours, lectures and the art and medicine program.

It was only a matter of time before the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania and PAFA would collaborate on a joint program, since the two institutions are within walking distance on North Broad Street.

“I believe we all get stronger together,” she said. “This partnership strengthens our work and missions as well as our relationships with our audiences. So, we rise together.”

The sold-out “After Hours Architecture Tour and Rooftop Reception at PAFA” held in August gave 64 guests the opportunity to experience the highlights of both buildings, led by experts in history and architecture.

“I had never been to the [Masonic] Temple before, despite our proximity,” Lori said. “I loved the idea of connecting the two buildings with a joint architecture walking tour.”

The event culminated with a reception on the rooftop of PAFA’s Hamilton building, with great views of both the Masonic Temple and Center City.

“Everyone had a good time,” Lori said. “Many of the guests were new people [non-members of either institution], which was satisfying in terms of cultivating new audiences. We’ve now decided to turn this into an annual event in the summer months.”

In the past, PAFA has partnered with other Philadelphia institutions on programs, including the African American Museum and the Asian Arts Initiative. Working with the Masonic Library and Museum was a natural next step, Lori said.

“The leadership was a delight and really committed and responsive,” she said. “It was fun to connect these two buildings, which were built around the same time.”

Lori is always thinking of fresh ways to bring arts groups together with the common mission of strengthening each other and continuing to bolster the arts in Philadelphia. The Masonic Library and Museum currently provides space for PAFA and other students to sketch as part of their coursework.

A William Rush exhibition is planned for the future, highlighting the number of Rush sculptures at the Masonic Temple, PAFA and other Philadelphia cultural institutions.

Working with art institutions, museums and schools in the city and beyond helps ensure the legacy of the Masonic Library and Museum as a Masonic and American treasure. Donors are making improvement efforts within our Masonic Temple and in preserving Masonic monuments across the state possible.

The Illumination Project, which will light the Masonic Temple alongside other landmark cultural institutions on the Avenue of the Arts, was successfully funded by generous supporters and is nearly complete. Your gifts also helped restore the Washington at Prayer statue at the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge for future generations.

Thank you to all who continue to help bring the history, art and influence of Pennsylvania Freemasonry to light for all to discover and embrace.

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