Wonderspaces opened its doors to the Philadelphia community on Jan. 24, revealing a host of highly–anticipated installations inside. Occupying a two–level, 24,000 square–foot gallery in Fashion District Philadelphia, Wonderspaces is currently home to 14 participatory exhibits designed by artists from around the globe, several of which made waves at major cultural events like Burning Man and Sundance Film Festival before finding their home in Philly.

Make no mistake, Wonderspaces is no ordinary showcase. Unlike traditional exhibitions, Wonderspaces encourages visitors to interact with the art around them—and to snap some fun photos for Instagram along the way.



Guests are invited to use their bodies to create artwork of their own in Memo Akten’s Body Paint. Sensors embedded in the installation detect a participant’s movement and create corresponding “paint” streaks on the wall. Meanwhile, Illegal Arts’ The Last Word gives visitors the chance to write down thoughts they’ve left unsaid on one of the hundreds of pieces of paper housed in the display and to read how others wish their conversations could have ended.



And be sure to keep your camera at the ready as there are plenty of opportunities to take unique photos as you navigate the exhibit. One of Wonderspaces most anticipated—and photographable—exhibits Submergence by Squidsoup invites guests to walk through 8,064 points of lights that change colors as the music does. Composed of 19 miles of multicolor string hung 12 feet high, Shawn Causey and Mark Daniell’s Sweet Spot makes for both a visual wonder and another great photo backdrop. 



Wonderspaces also offers two virtual reality experiences for visitors to enjoy, including a film of a truly out–of–this–world dinner party. Based on the story of Betty and Barney Hill, a couple who reported being abducted by aliens in the 1960s, attendees can experience firsthand the Hills’ journey to space and back in the world of VR.

An experience that everyone can enjoy, Wonderspaces connects the people of Philadelphia to extraordinary art. But don’t take my word for it—go and experience the magic of a visit for yourself.

Tickets for Wonderspaces are available for purchase online and correspond to specific times and dates. 

Location: 27 N. 11th St., Philadelphia, PA (between Filbert and Market St., inside Fashion District Philadelphia)

Hours: 

Monday, Wednesday, & Thursday: 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Closed Tuesdays