Recently we were sad to report that Anne d'Harnoncourt, the highly respected director of the Philadelphia Museum of Art died unexpectedly.

Since then, the city declared June 19, 2008 as a Day of Appreciation for Anne d'Harnoncourt, and on that day the Philadelphia Museum of Art will be open free to the public from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. On that same day, at 11:30 a.m. the City Council will issue a resolution honoring Anne d’Harnoncourt’s "extraordinary leadership and public service."

In the Museum, guest books in which "visitors may share thoughts, appreciation and memories will be on display throughout the day." An audio tour of Director’s Delights, in which d’Harnoncourt shares her fascination with choice works in the galleries, will be available free of charge.

At 6 p.m., the public is also invited to gather on the Museum’s East Terrace for a tribute in appreciation of Anne d’Harnoncourt. On the steps, the Philadelphia Boys Choir will perform.

Donations in her memory may be made to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, P.O. Box 7646, Philadelphia, Pa., 19101-7646.

Anne d'Harnoncourt's portrait courtesy of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.