This April, the Philadelphia Art Museum will showcase the iconic Rocky statue as the centerpiece of a new exhibition that arrives just in time for the 50th anniversary of the original film.
The Rocky Statue’s New Home
The Rocky statue, a beloved symbol of Philadelphia’s sporting spirit, has long called the museum home. Its presence has become synonymous with the city’s cultural identity, and this spring it will take center stage in a fresh showcase.
Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments
The exhibit, titled “Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments”, will feature more than 150 different pieces created by more than 50 artists. In addition to the statue itself, the display will include artifacts that span over 2,000 years of history, illustrating the evolution of public monuments across cultures and eras.
Exploring the Stories Behind Public Statues
Organizers say “Rising Up” will explore how monuments are created and reshaped by artists, communities, and the passage of time. The exhibition will highlight often‑overlooked stories behind public statues, including Philadelphia’s boxing legends, immigrant neighborhoods, and ongoing debates over the future of shared spaces.
Mayor Cherelle Parker’s Praise
“I am thrilled to celebrate the announcement of the historic Rising Up exhibition in 2026 at the Philadelphia Art Museum,” said Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker. “This show is a testament to the vitality and passion of Philadelphia’s arts, culture, and sports communities. Rising Up explores the city’s relationship to its many statues, the artists who create them, and the many neighborhoods where these statues exist. It is more than timely as we approach our monumental Semiquincentennial year.”
Exhibition Schedule
According to the museum, the exhibit will be open from April 25 through August 2, 2026. Visitors will have several months to experience the full range of artworks and artifacts on display.
Why It Matters
The timing of the show is deliberate: it coincides with the 50th anniversary of the original “Rocky” movie, a film that has become an enduring part of Philadelphia’s cultural fabric. By placing the statue at the heart of the exhibit, the museum underscores the statue’s role as a living monument that continues to inspire new generations.
Key Takeaways
- The Rocky statue will headline the new exhibit at the Philadelphia Art Museum.
- The show, titled “Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments”, will feature over 150 pieces by more than 50 artists and artifacts spanning 2,000 years.
- The exhibition runs from April 25 to August 2, 2026, celebrating Rocky’s 50th anniversary and the city’s relationship to public monuments.
In the final days of spring, the museum invites residents and visitors alike to step into the world of Rocky, to reflect on the stories that shape Philadelphia’s streets, and to celebrate the enduring power of monuments.
