The Knight Foundation is bringing larger-than-life reproductions of museum masterpieces into the streets of four U.S. cities through its InsideOut summer program. These oversized artworks will be installed at accessible outdoor locations—often within walking or biking distance—so locals and visitors can encounter celebrated pieces outside the museum setting. Participating institutions include the Akron Art Museum, the Detroit Institute of Arts, Pérez Art Museum Miami, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Featured works span artists such as Paul Gauguin, Claude Monet, Andy Warhol, and others.
The launch of InsideOut coincides with a public photo event and Instagram contest called #InsideOutUSA. On June 3 from 6–9 p.m., participants can gather at InsideOut installations to photograph the exhibits. By tagging the hosting museum and using #InsideOutUSA, entrants will be eligible for judging by local guest judges and a chance to win prizes.
Each city is marking the program with unique activities tailored to its community. Akron will place 40 reproduced artworks across eight neighborhoods and host an InsideOut block party featuring food, guided tours, and family-friendly art activities. Detroit’s schedule includes bike and walking tours, a two-day art festival, and costume contests inspired by the artworks on display. Philadelphia’s installations will appear across 12 neighborhoods, many conveniently close to well-known historic attractions such as Independence Hall and the Betsy Ross House, making it easy for visitors to combine cultural sightseeing with the outdoor exhibition.
InsideOut aims to broaden public access to museum collections by taking artworks beyond gallery walls and into everyday public life. “It is one thing to see such incredible works of art in a museum, but it is an entirely new experience to view them outdoors and in your community. By bringing InsideOut to cities across the U.S., we’re able to share the treasures of the museums more broadly and engage people directly as they go about their everyday lives,” said Victoria Rogers, vice president for arts at the Knight Foundation.
The program offers an inviting, low-barrier way to experience notable works of art: people can encounter reproductions while commuting, walking a neighborhood, or attending local events. This approach encourages spontaneous encounters with art, nurturing curiosity and conversation among diverse audiences. The installations also create photo opportunities and community gatherings that highlight the city’s cultural assets and support local programming tied to the exhibitions.
Visitors interested in participating should check with their local museum for maps, event schedules, and any guided activities connected to InsideOut. Whether you visit to appreciate the art, take part in a guided tour, join a block party, or enter the Instagram contest, InsideOut brings museum treasures into public view and into everyday life across multiple American cities.