Wharton Esherick: A Philadelphia Modernist
Wharton Esherick (1887-1970) was a sculptor who worked primarily in wood, readily extending his unique forms to furniture, furnishings, utensils, interiors and buildings, creating sculptural environments. His motto, “if it isn’t fun, it isn’t worth doing,” is evident in the joyful expression of his work.
“This is an individual who really responded to what Philadelphia architects were exploring in the 1920s in terms of what it meant to be modern,” says William Whitaker, curator and collections manger for the Architectural Archives. In fact, people like architect George Howe, who was at the center of this modern movement, sought out Esherick for his work and craftsmanship; Howe even asked Esherick to create an interior for the 1940 World’s Fair.”
A National Historic Landmark for Architecture, Esherick’s hilltop studio/residence, with more than 200 of his works on exhibition, has been preserved much as it was when the artist lived and worked there. The museum is open to the public through guided tours for which reservations are required. Schiffer Books also just released an amazing Escheric biography for those of you who’d like to brush up on his work before visiting the museum.
