For generations, visitors of the Please Touch Museum have taken pictures of their children atop our beloved Tortoise, one of the most photographed pieces in the Museum. Originally commissioned for our North 21st Street location, the Tortoise was sculpted by Philadelphia-based artist Eric Berg, a close friend of the Museum’s founder Portia Sperr.
In 2018, Mr. Berg’s work at the Museum grew to include the sculpted rabbit gates that surround our historic Woodside Park Dentzel Carousel. Commissioned in memory of Stephanie Liem Azar, daughter of long-time Museum advocates and board members Gie and Lisa Liem, the rabbit gates greet every child that anxiously awaits a ride on our glimmering Carousel.
In addition to the Please Touch Museum, Mr. Berg’s work can be seen at the Philadelphia Zoo, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Reading Terminal Market and the bronze gates on Gardner’s Cottage in Rittenhouse Square.
Mr. Berg passed away this May and leaves behind a legacy of public work throughout the Philadelphia region. We are grateful to have two pieces of his work at the Please Touch Museum, which will continue to be treasured by the children and families we serve.