A celebration of the life, work, and values of Philadelphia artist Sam Maitin
Sam Maitin was lovingly known as Philadelphia's mayor of the arts. As one of the most recognizable Philadelphia artists of his time, he is remembered for his iconic, joyful, colorful artwork and his involvement and powerful voice in the arts itself. He brought together artists, patrons, and policymakers to promote the arts in Philadelphia and beyond.
In 2028, the centennial celebration and commemoration highlighting the life and legacy of Sam Maitin begins. It will be a year-long endeavor at multiple locations that will include exhibitions, symposiums, talks, walking tours of his public art, and more.
The celebration will highlight Maitin’s work in the context of the modern and contemporary art movements locally, nationally, and internationally; his role as an advocate and promoter of the arts and artists specifically in Philadelphia; his identity as a child of Russian Jewish immigrants; and his dedication to using his art as a tool for social justice and for supporting cultural causes throughout the city.
Participating Organizations
(working list)
- The Print Center
- The Kislak Center for Special Collections at the University of Pennsylvania
- The Print and Picture Collection of the Free Library of Philadelphia
- The Philadelphia Museum of Art
- Woodmere Art Museum
- The Michener Museum
- Bryn Mawr College Special Collections
- Swarthmore College
- Villanova University
- La Salle University Art Museum
Your Support
We invite you to be a part of this large-scale initiative highlighting Maitin's life, work, and values. Your generosity will aid in the production and promotion of the Centennial events and will help introduce new audiences to Sam's amazing life and art, and his important contributions to America's modern and contemporary art movements.
- All donation amounts are important and deeply appreciated.
- Contributions of $100+ will be listed on the SamMaitin.org site
- Donors at the $1000+ level will also receive specialinvitations to receptions and event openings.
- Thank you to The Print Center for their generosity in acting as our fiscal sponsor.
- All donations are tax-deductible.

