Philadelphia owns more than 1,000 public artworks. Scores are missing.

Known for its outdoor art, Philadelphia has twice gutted its public arts office, and officials have not inventoried the collection in decades. At least 85 works are recorded as missing.

Painter Rebecca Rose in her Philadelphia studio Wednesday. Three artworks she was commissioned to create have been painted over or removed during recreation department renovations.Read moreJessica Griffin / Staff Photographer

by Max Marin

Published Feb. 23, 2025, 5:00 a.m. ET