By Molly Given
Meg Saligman’s latest creation has set its sights on the spring of next year, and with this latest project, Philadelphians can become part of the interactive and multisensory art experience themselves.
Ministry of Awe (MoA) will open the doors to its Philly headquarters on Saturday, March 14, 2026. The showcase is the result of a collaboration with Saligman and over 100 artists, makers, spirits, and shadows. What locals will find in the once abandoned 19th-century bank is a six-story work of art that will “ break into your brain and seize your senses.”
Saligman has a career with three decades worth of public art installations located around the world. Locals will recognize ‘Passing Through’ (2004), her work seen by 100,000 motorists each day on Interstate 76, ‘Common Threads’ made for Mural Arts Philadelphia at Broad and Spring Garden streets, and many other showcases of her work peppered around the city.
As a release note, it was in 2022 that Saligman shifted gears and accepted her position as bank president and artistic visionary behind the Ministry of Awe (MoA) in Old City, which happens to be the nation’s oldest banking district.
“MoA is opening in Philadelphia because in this city, art isn’t just decoration—it’s declaration,” says Saligman. “Our exquisite creation is not just a place, but a collective spark, a shared breath, and a reminder of what it feels like to be truly moved, made possible in part by a brilliant and adventurous community of contributing artists. In a world where humans are more connected to screens and machines than to each other, we’re daring people to join us and to feel something new.”
The MoA’s experience is officially described as one that unravels into art, mystery, imagination, and playful exploration. Throughout the multi-level experience, visitors can expect performance artists, towering installations, interactive sculptures, live art, and immersive soundscapes.
The official opening date for the Ministry of Awe (225 Church St.) is set for Saturday, March 14. After which, time slots will be available every Tuesday through Sunday with daytime and evening sessions available to book. Before opening, locals can get involved a little early by partaking in various community art-making events, including Tuesday Co-Creation Nights and First Fridays. A full schedule is available online.
To nab tickets (available in January) and get more information, visit moaphilly.org