The Philadelphia Sketch Club functions as a regional arts education center offering life model and printmaking workshops, exhibitions, a library, archive, and study collection. The intriguing history and legacy of the Philadelphia Sketch Club lends a distinct atmosphere to the organization today and continues to flavor the organization's contemporary initiatives, making for an extraordinary experience for those who participate in the PSC's activities.

The Philadelphia Sketch Club was founded in 1860 by six former students of the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts who sought to improve their skills at illustration. Over the years, PSC members have been a force in local and national art. The list of distinguished artists who have helped art fourish at the PSC include N.C. Wyeth, Howard Chandler Christy, Henry Pitz, Hugh Breckenridge, Walter Baum, Daniel Garber, John Dull, Earl Horter, and Benton Spruance to name a few.