This summer, visual artist Mary Mattingly will construct a barge on the Delaware River designed to look like a partially-submerged Philadelphia row home. Within this public art installation called “WetLand,” there will be a workspace, event space, and regenerative environmental systems.

“WetLand” will live at the Marina at Penn’s Landing, not far from FringeArts’ new theater. The project will contribute to the cultural revitalization of the Delaware River waterfront and will serve as an additional attraction to connect the waterfront to Philadelphia’s Old City neighborhood.

Community partnerships will be integral to the success of the project. Mattingly will invite local craftspeople, artists, builders, and students to assist in constructing this project. Once constructed, our partnership with Philadelphia Academies will make local high school students the stewards of “WetLand,” giving them the opportunity to monitor the onboard environmental systems and lead group tours.

For the entire month, “WetLand” will be free and open to the public for visitors to observe and learn about the structure’s natural environment. In commissioning this project, Mattingly’s work will contribute to our commitment to bring free, visual art experiences to the Philadelphia community and increase our engagement with local community members and students.