In a vibrant display of creativity and local pride, Pittsburgh has officially unveiled its latest public art installation, titled We Are Pittsburgh. This monumental tribute, located at the corner of Stanwix Street and Fort Duquesne Boulevard, features the towering images of prominent figures who have significantly contributed to the city’s rich history and cultural fabric.
A Tribute to Legends
On May 28, 2019, the City of Pittsburgh introduced the artwork, created by artists Joshua Chang and Aaron Ramon. The installation pays homage to important cultural icons such as baseball Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente, renowned artist Andy Warhol, and acclaimed writer and ecologist Rachel Carson. These figures are displayed on nine-story high banners, strategically positioned to face the Allegheny River, symbolizing their eternal presence in the city.
The banners are arranged sequentially from west to east, capturing the essence of Pittsburgh's bridge connectivity and geographical layout. On the eastern side of the building, additional banners celebrate other influential figures, including the Native American leader Queen Aliquippa, musician Art Blakey, industrialist Andrew Carnegie, and civil rights activist Asa Philip Randolph, among others.
Engaging the Community
Local residents were quick to express their affection for the installation. Shalonda Johnson, a 30-year-old Pittsburgh resident, shared her delight, noting, “It’s really nice. It adds so much character. It’s so diverse — it shows what the city is about and all the people it represents.”
The installation has already sparked discussions on social media, with suggestions to include more local legends like Fred Rogers, Mac Miller, and others. Cameron Simpson, a 21-year-old from Brighton Heights, commented, “It represents Pittsburgh,” but pondered the absence of more contemporary icons.
Artistic Innovation
At its core, We Are Pittsburgh utilizes pixelation, triangulation, and a burst of colors to create an optical illusion, making the artwork shift depending on the viewer's perspective. This innovative approach invites interactivity, as the artwork’s true composition is best captured through smartphone or camera lenses, encouraging viewers to engage with the piece dynamically.
The banners cover the expansive window bays of the parking garage at 625 Stanwix St., making it highly visible to those crossing the nearby Roberto Clemente Bridge and from within PNC Park. This strategic placement ensures that the installation not only beautifies the urban landscape but also integrates into the daily lives of Pittsburghers and visitors alike.
A Collaborative Effort
The project was brought to life in collaboration with Joco Sky LLP and Urban Growth Properties, the private developers who own the building, as well as the city’s Public Art and Civic Design Division. A city press release highlighted that the theme of the installation revolves around “History, Togetherness, Pride, and Color,” emphasizing the unity and diverse heritage of Pittsburgh.
The Future of Public Art in Pittsburgh
As We Are Pittsburgh continues to receive positive feedback, it stands to inspire further public art initiatives within the city. Jasmine Hicks, a 26-year-old resident noted, “It’s nice as a tourist attraction,” while also advocating for the inclusion of additional significant local contributions, including culinary arts — a nod to Pittsburgh’s beloved pierogies.
The unveiling of this installation marks a celebratory moment for Pittsburgh, as it continues to honor its past while inspiring a shared vision for the future of public art.
For more information and to explore the lives of these iconic figures, you can visit the City of Pittsburgh website.
Conclusion
With its new installation, Pittsburgh proudly embraces the legacy of its notable residents while inviting community engagement through art. As visitors and locals alike stop to admire the towering murals, We Are Pittsburgh serves as a reminder of the vast and diverse history that continues to shape this extraordinary city.
For those interested in participating in more cultural events and exploring local art, check out the Event Guide for upcoming activities.
