NEW YORK, NY.- For years, members of the community who work in and appreciate decorative arts have struggled to invigorate the field with interest from new audiences. Just six short months ago, however, a group of twelve creative and skilled professionals from across the decorative arts world came together and launched Fine Objects Society (FOS) with Please Touch, an exhibition in New York City. The response was overwhelmingly enthusiastic with a rapidly growing membership including decorative arts professionals, collectors and people simply curious about the power, beauty and meaning of objects. Monthly member events as well as special programs held during January’s Americana Week in New York have drawn people of all ages who are passionate about historic craftsmanship and the unique ways in which objects can become part of their daily lives. On April 25-26, FOS will travel to Philadelphia for its inaugural weekend of immersive, behind-the-scenes experiences, private tours and engaging conversations with designers, decorative arts specialists and visual artists. These events will serve to launch an FOS community in Philadelphia and ultimately in other cities around the country.

“We're excited about the future of antiques. This is a cultural moment when physical connection is more important than ever,” said Ben Miller, president of Fine Objects Society and Curious Objects podcast host. “Unique, handcrafted objects invite our imagination and fill our lives with stories and meaning, not to mention beauty and comfort. FOS is about connection between people and things. The influence of these objects, like the influence of political structures, social institutions, and built environments can go unnoticed, but it can't be ignored. Our programming is about giving attention to objects, their influence, and their potential to make us better and happier people.”

In bringing FOS to Philadelphia, this organization, which believes the future of decorative arts lies in building bridges to a much larger world, will introduce the community to objects found at some of the city’s most prestigious venues for exploring decorative arts. From a welcome party hosted by Freeman’s | Hindman on Friday evening with a preview of their upcoming auction to a behind-the-scenes excursion to the Clay Studio, one of the nation’s largest and most respected centers for ceramics, participants will enjoy hands-on experience of craft and design across centuries through today. Events will continue with an exclusive tour of Mount Pleasant Mansion in East Fairmount Park—currently closed to the public—which John Adams described as “the most elegant seat in Pennsylvania.” The afternoon will conclude with a fascinating panel discussion in collaboration with The Philadelphia Show featuring unique and insightful perspectives from Amber Cowan, glass and sculpture artist, Peter S. Seibert, president and CEO of Independence Seaport Museum and Steven W. Spandle, founding principal of Steve W. Spandle Architects, speaking about how historic objects inform their work and their lives. The panel discussion, moderated by Ben Miller, will be an engaging look at antiques and the stories they tell. The weekend will culminate with a reception hosted by The Philadelphia Show that will offer attendees an opportunity to mix, mingle and converse with dealers and specialists about the exceptional material on view.

David Walker, principal at Walker Decorative Arts in Philadelphia and Fine Objects Society Board member, commented, “I think that hosting events in Philadelphia, particularly in tandem with The Philadelphia Show, is a natural progression for the Fine Objects Society. Philadelphia has such a wealth of important public and private historic homes and collections, including Stenton, Cliveden and Andalusia, as well as a rich history of furniture making commensurate with the city’s political prominence in the 18th century. Much of the most rare and valuable 18th-century American furniture was made in Philadelphia. Thus, it makes sense for FOS to engage with the active network of Philadelphia-based collectors, arts and antiques dealers. There is great opportunity for enthusiasts of historic objects to find things they love here.”

For people interested in joining FOS in conjunction with registering for the Philadelphia Experience, annual membership (normally $120) for the first year will cost $95.

Whether a seasoned collector or antiques enthusiast, the FOS Philadelphia Experience will be a celebration of culture, creativity and connection.