PHILADELPHIA.- Moore College of Art & Design presents Alice Neel - Drawing from Life, on view through December 6, 2008. Alice Neel (1900 – 1984), a Philadelphia native and alumna of Moore College of Art & Design, is known for psychologically penetrating works that chronicle her life and times.

The Alice Neel - Drawing from Life exhibition features a selection of portraits and still lifes, spanning more than fifty years, that examine drawing as the primary process in both her works on paper and paintings. A self-proclaimed "collector of souls," Neel's bold, drawing-based approach reflects the artists' lifelong commitment to the individual and the moment. Curated by Lorie Mertes, Rochelle F. Levy Director and Chief Curator, The Galleries at Moore.

Moore College of Art & Design is commemorating its 160th anniversary with nine months of special events, exhibitions and activities that will offer the public an opportunity to learn more about the school, its celebrated graduates and its integral role in the cultural life of Philadelphia. Moore is the first, and remains the only, women’s art college in the country. It has maintained its commitment to educating confident women who go on to great success and leadership in their careers. In addition, the school continues to open its doors to the community through a wide range of art-related opportunities available throughout the year for all ages.

“Our 160th Anniversary is an exciting time to look back at historical milestones, celebrate the achievements of our graduates and look ahead to a future of continued innovation in the arts,” says Moore President Happy Craven Fernandez. “We take very seriously our role in Philadelphia’s vibrant cultural community and invite everyone to visit Moore and take part in the many art-related opportunities we have to share at all times and particularly during this anniversary year.”

The official commemoration begins on Thursday, August 28, 2008, when the First Lady of Pennsylvania Judge Marjorie O. Rendell welcomes the new academic year at Moore’s Convocation 2008 ceremony. This day will also mark the official opening of two significant exhibitions to be held in The Galleries at Moore through December 6. Mary McFadden: Goddesses will honor this renowned fashion designer’s eclectic body of work, including gowns, clothing ensembles and jewelry inspired by her worldwide travels and cultural interests, and will also feature some of McFadden’s own treasured collection of textiles. Alice Neel: Drawing from Life pays tribute to celebrated Philadelphia-born artist and Moore graduate Alice Neel (1900-1984), whose intense focus on the individual and the present moment is represented through a selection of portraits and still life paintings and drawings.

Also available starting August 28 will be the College’s 160th commemorative history, Moore College of Art & Design. Published by Arcadia Publishing, this book captures through photographs and historical narrative many of the school’s significant moments as well as milestones that have impacted the education of women beyond the school’s campus. The book is available for sale in The Art Shop at Moore and in major bookstores and online. Also to be unveiled are ties and scarves designed by textile design students celebrating the spirit of Moore (available at The Art Shop at Moore) as well as a newly redesigned website (www.moore.edu) with access to all there is to know and learn about Moore.