By Crystal Herrera
In Old City, a historic bank is being transformed into the Ministry of Awe, a nonprofit arts space where murals, aerialists and artificial intelligence will converge to create an immersive experience. The project, set to open in late 2025, aims to challenge how the public thinks about currency, value and community.
At the heart of the project is Executive Creative Director and international muralist Meg Saligman, who, along with a diverse group of artists, draws inspiration from the building’s former life as the Manufacturer’s National Bank and Philadelphia’s role as a center for early financial institutions. “Philadelphia built its history around currency and banking, but we want to ask the question: ‘What’s your currency? What do you really value?’ ”
The MoA, 27 N. 3rd St., will offer a dynamic mix of artistic disciplines, from murals and performances to interactive installations and poetry. While some works will be permanent, the space is designed to evolve as new artists are invited to contribute through open calls.
This fluidity, Saligman said, is integral to the MoA. “What we want to maintain is a space of constant creativity, made for future creation and co-creation by a community of Philadelphia artists,” she explained. “It will evolve with wild ideas — from resident visionaries, visiting artists and even the visitors themselves.”
A key part of the project’s mission is to foster collaboration among artists while ensuring they are compensated. Kelly Prevard, a muralist from Atlantic City, praised the MoA’s commitment to supporting its creatives. “What I love about this space is the opportunity it gives artists to work and grow together,” Prevard said. “It can be hard to thrive in our profession, but spaces like this create opportunities.”
Artists at the MoA are not only collaborating with each other but embracing technology as a creative partner. One of the project’s signature installations will be “Off the Face and Into the Space,” a celestial mural driven by artificial intelligence. Created by Spatial Pixel, an AI research and design studio, the mural will respond to visitor interactions, changing its display based on their movements, creating a unique, ever-evolving experience.
Beyond the art itself, Philadelphia’s tourism leaders are excited about the MoA’s potential to attract both locals and tourists. Neil Frauenglass, Chief Marketing Officer of Visit Philadelphia, views the project as a draw for the city.
“Philly is a world-class city with world-class art,” Frauenglass said. “The Ministry of Awe is a chance to show the creativity and leadership happening here.”
Repurposing the bank, which had been vacant for a decade, has garnered support from the city, state and private donors. State Sen. Nikil Saval, who represents Old City, noted that the project honors the city’s past while promoting its future.
“Old City has undergone significant change yet remains deeply connected to its history,” Saval said. “The Ministry of Awe’s mission of turning vision into action demonstrates the power of collective effort. It preserves our cultural heritage while promoting economic revitalization.”
Funding for the MoA comes from a blend of public and private sources, including contributions from the state of Pennsylvania, the city of Philadelphia and private donors. However, the project is still fundraising to cover the remaining costs. Once operational, artists will receive royalties from ticket sales.
As the Ministry of Awe prepares to open, it hopes to offer a space that evolves alongside the community. By reimagining the historic space, the MoA invites Philadelphians and visitors alike to reconsider what it means to be rich — not in terms of wealth, but in creativity, connection and collective experience. ••
