The University of the Arts The University of the Arts is the nation's first and only university dedicated exclusively to education and training in the visual, design, performing, and media arts. Its history reflects Philadelphia's rich heritage of artistic innovation and accomplishment as well as its important historical position in American industry and manufacturing. Since the 1870s, the university has been a dynamic force in Philadelphia's vibrant artistic communities. The University of the Arts presents for the first time historic images gathered from the university's archives and numerous cultural institutions. Featured scenes include the Pennsylvania Museum and School of Industrial Art, the Philadelphia Musical Academy, the Philadelphia Conservatory of Music, the Philadelphia Dance Academy, and the architecture of John Haviland, Frank Furness, and Horace Trumbauer.