Lucy Dacus’ new album is inspired by the Barnes Foundation, which will feature her portrait for a limited time.

Lucy Dacus, the acclaimed indie musician, has returned to Philadelphia this week, bringing with her not only a new tour but also a special portrait painted in her likeness. The anticipation surrounding her visit has garnered considerable excitement from fans in the city.

Dacus, who relocated to Los Angeles in 2023, is set to commence the first leg of her tour in support of her latest album, Forever is a Feeling, with a performance scheduled for Wednesday at The Met Philadelphia. This marks a significant homecoming for the artist, who has deep connections to the city and its cultural institutions.

Throughout her promotional efforts for Forever is a Feeling, Dacus has openly expressed her admiration for the Barnes Foundation, a renowned art museum located in Philadelphia. She has recounted how her experiences at the museum played a pivotal role in her creative process, particularly when she composed part of her song “Modigliani” during a visit to the venue. The song pays homage to Amedeo Modigliani, an Italian artist noted for his distinctively elongated portrayals in painting and sculpture. The Barnes Foundation boasts an impressive collection, featuring 16 works by Modigliani, as it was among the first in the United States to recognize the value of his art.

In recognition of Dacus’s connection to the museum, the Barnes Foundation is displaying a striking oil portrait of her, created by contemporary artist Will St. John. This work, which serves as the cover for her new album, captures Dacus surrounded by ethereal blue-gray clouds and will be showcased at the museum’s Annenberg Court on Thursday and Friday.

The portrait’s display in Philadelphia is particularly significant, as it marks its first public showcase in the city. Previously, the piece was featured only at exclusive listening events in cities such as New York and Chicago. During her Brooklyn performance, Dacus highlighted the availability of this painting for fans, prompting enthusiastic reactions from attendees, who expressed their delight in both her music and the artwork.

As word about the exhibition spread, fans reacted with enthusiasm, likening this experience to monumental cultural events. The temporary tribute illustrates the strong ties between Dacus and the Philadelphia art scene, creating a moment for both the artist and her supporters.

The Forever is a Feeling portrait will be on view at the Barnes Foundation from April 17 to April 18. For additional details about the exhibit and ticket reservations, interested individuals can visit barnesfoundation.org or call 215-278-7000 for more information.