Moore College dean’s Spring Garden condo reflects his artistic style and design choices.

In the vibrant neighborhood of Spring Garden, Joshua Wilkin’s condo has become a notable destination for art enthusiasts. Visitors often express their admiration for a striking 8-foot-long painting by Wendy Edwards, capturing a dreamscape of coral and turquoise moons against a backdrop of deep blue space. This impressive artwork sets the tone for the condo, which showcases a remarkable collection of abstract expressionist pieces.

Upon entering the living space, guests are greeted by an array of colorful artwork. The balcony doors are flanked by paintings, including a vivid piece of an orange bird against a magenta background by Salvatore Federico and playful blue spheres on white by Stephen Mueller. Another captivating work by Melissa Meyer, featuring swirling pinks and blues, further enhances the room’s aesthetic. The colors of these artworks are reflected in the decor, including pink mid-century modern chairs and blue columnar floor lamps, which are complemented by a cozy tan sofa and a substantial Persian rug.

Wilkin, who has served as the dean of students at Moore College of Art & Design since 2017, has cultivated his art collection over the past 15 years. His latest addition, a 4-by-6-foot painting titled “Abstract in Yellow” by Peter Golfinopoulos, was acquired this summer. Among the treasures in his living room is “Close Ties,” a painting by the late Philadelphia artist Louise Fishman. This particular piece holds sentimental value for Wilkin, as it was a gift from his father to commemorate Wilkin’s achievement of earning a doctorate from Seton Hall University.

Originally aspiring to have a career in music, Wilkin’s journey took an unexpected turn after he became involved in residential life at the University of the Sciences and later at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. His exposure to local galleries during his time at FIT ignited a passion for visual art that he had not fully appreciated before.

In 2020, he purchased his bi-level two-bedroom condo, which he has meticulously designed to harmonize with his artwork. The walls are painted in warm ochre tones with white trim, while an accent wall in the living room is a soothing ice blue. Decor elements throughout the condo reflect a balance of whimsy and sophistication, including a green desk and a yellow chair in the office-guest room, adorned with abstract paintings and a lively circus poster.

Wilkin has sourced items for his home from various online retailers such as Etsy and Design Within Reach. His collection also includes pieces by local artists, like a charming illustration of shoppers at Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal Market by Moore graduate Kasey Uhter. This dedication to supporting Philadelphia talent underscores Wilkin’s commitment to the arts community.

Overall, Wilkin’s condo serves as a testament to a harmonious blend of personal history, artistic passion, and a deep appreciation for contemporary art, making it a notable highlight in the local art scene.