Arts + Artists
TRANSFORMATION CITY »
Showcasing a 'New America'
The Pittsburgh region has survived wrenching economic change and emerged with a balanced, innovation-driven economy renowned for health care and life sciences, technology and robotics, higher education and research, financial services, advanced manufacturing and renewable energy.
NEIGHBORHOODS »
A City Full of Diversity
As a city full of diversity, you will love exploring the culture, food, and atmosphere of Pittsburgh’s 89 unique and ethnically distinctive neighborhoods. Pittsburgh’s downtown is full of the city hustle and bustle, and Squirrel Hill has the quaint charm of a main street-like community. Meanwhile, Oakland, with its many universities, supplies a uniquely intellectual atmosphere. Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods and the unique people in them are just waiting for you to come and visit!.
Liberty Avenue Musicians
Contact: James Simon, +1 412.434.5629
James Simon's Larger -Than-Life Public Art Redefines Downtown Pittsburgh's Streetscape
Located in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh James Simon's popular large-scale musician sculptures have brought a bold and innovative artistic element to this urban setting. Commissioned by Developer Eve Picker the project transforms a narrow abandoned lot onto a modern loft building with a courtyard featuring this sculptural facade. Comprised of three 15-foot sculptures cast in concrete, the lively musicians-who pay homage to Pittsburgh's music tradition-serve as a landmark entryway, greeting the thousands of people who pass by every day.
In 2003 artist James Simon was commissioned to create three large-scale sculptures in front of a new development at 947 Liberty Avenue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The sculptures – "Liberty Avenue Musicians" – were to bind one side of a courtyard for the new building to create a continuous street face on Liberty Avenue, while at the same time ensuring that the courtyard was delineated from the street. Located in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh, James Simons popular large-scale musician sculptures have brought an eclectic and joyous spirit to the historic district of Pittsburgh, once the red light district of the city, and now an area in the midst of renovation, and known for its musical heritage. Across the street, the August Wilson Center for African American Culture is now under construction, along with various other renovation projects. The sculptures have become a recognizable icon serving as a landmark entryway. Since completion, the building, along with the sculptures have been featured in Dwell and American Institute of Architects (AIA) magazines, as well as the city's recently published public art book and map.
MEDIA »
Media Resources
Get the inside scoop while you report on the G20 Summit in Pittsburgh. Find story ideas and media contacts that have the information you need to make deadline.
Media Library
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ENVIRONMENTAL RENAISSANCE »
A view of the David Lawrence Convention Center
Green Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is leading the way in green initiatives. With green buildings located throughout the city and the nation’s first green convention center, we’re rethinking the cityscape and uncovering new ways to keep it green.
