Pittsburgh—celebrated for its legacy arts institutions, thriving artistic talent, and industrial ingenuity—is poised to become a national and international destination for craft. The city and the surrounding Appalachian region boast a strong historical tradition of craft. This vibrant ecosystem elevates the craft tradition, rooted in ceramics, glass, fiber, metal, and wood. Today, Pittsburgh’s craft community has an unprecedented opportunity to shine and establish itself as a global hub for craft excellence.
Why Craft? Why Pittsburgh?
Craft—the meticulous transformation of materials into functional and artistic creations—has deep roots in Pittsburgh’s history and culture. The city’s industrial past laid the groundwork for an enduring appreciation of skill, technique, and craftsmanship. Today, that legacy is carried forward by institutions like Contemporary Craft. Under the leadership of Rachel Saul Rearick, Contemporary Craft has broadened its programmatic offerings and is set to expand its physical footprint in 2025.
“I whole-heartedly believe in the statement that Pittsburgh IS Craft,” says Rearick.”Historically, this city created materials and products that quite literally shaped the world. Today, artists live and work here using the same materials. And places like Contemporary Craft and the Pittsburgh Glass Center invite artists from all over the world to work in our facilities and engage with the region.”
Similarly, the Pittsburgh Glass Center, under the leadership of Heather McElwee, recently completed a transformative capital campaign, resulting in a significant expansion of its facilities and programming.
Extending Outside the City
These institutions are just the beginning. Pittsburgh’s location in Western Pennsylvania further strengthens its position as a craft hub. To the South East in Fayette County, Touchstone Center for Crafts stands as a serene retreat offering workshops and residencies for artists across the craft spectrum. Additionally, Pittsburgh is conveniently situated within a day’s drive of major metropolitan areas like New York City, Washington, D.C., and Chicago—creating opportunities to attract visitors, artists, and collectors from these markets and even more broadly. Its accessibility allows for the seamless exchange of ideas, materials, and markets, making it an ideal crossroads for craft enthusiasts and professionals.
The region’s craft assets extend beyond institutional support. Universities such as Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh offer programs that integrate traditional craft techniques with cutting-edge technology, fostering innovation and attracting new talent. Additionally, PennWest University, with its Edinboro branch, carries a legacy of more than 100 years of craft-based education, offering robust programs in ceramics, metalworking, and other traditional arts. Greater Pittsburgh is also home to numerous independent studios and galleries. These places provide spaces for artisans to further refine their practices, showcase their work, and engage with the community.
Pittsburgh’s geographic location and rich craft ecosystem create the perfect conditions for the city to emerge as a premier destination for craft. By leveraging its industrial heritage, investing in its institutions, and promoting its accessibility, Pittsburgh has the potential to solidify its reputation as a global hub for craft excellence.
A Vision for the Future
Pittsburgh’s craft community has all the components to make the region a global destination for craft: regional history, skilled artisans, strong institutional support, world-class facilities for making, and a deep appreciation for tradition combined with innovation. However, to truly solidify this claim, it will take collective action and investment from individuals, businesses, and philanthropic organizations.
Individual Support
- Buy Local: Support local artisans by purchasing handcrafted goods from craft fairs, galleries, and online platforms.
- Learn and Participate: Take a class or workshop at Contemporary Craft, the Pittsburgh Glass Center, Touchstone Center for Crafts, or the Union Project. By participating, you not only gain a deeper appreciation for craft but also support its sustainability.
Business Engagement
- Corporate Partnerships: Companies can commission custom works from local artisans, enhancing their brand identity while supporting the craft community.
- Workplace Programs: Businesses can sponsor team-building workshops or events that connect employees with craft, fostering creativity and collaboration.
Philanthropic Investment
- Fund Expansion: Support the growth of institutions like Contemporary Craft and the Pittsburgh Glass Center through donations or endowments.
- Create Opportunities: Establish scholarships and grants for emerging craft artists to study, innovate, and showcase their work.
Craft as a Catalyst for Cultural Tourism
Beyond the intrinsic value of craft, elevating Pittsburgh as a craft destination could have profound economic and cultural benefits. Cultural tourists spend more and stay longer than the average visitor. By investing in craft, Pittsburgh could attract visitors from around the globe. Visitors ould feel the draw the promise of unique, high-quality experiences in a city where art and industry converge.
Take Oaxaca, Mexico, as an example, which has become a global destination for craft tourism. Its annual Guelaguetza Festival, along with markets and workshops, draws tens of thousands of visitors each year. In 2022 alone, the festival generated an estimated $45 million in economic activity for the region.
Imagine a future where Pittsburgh hosts an annual international craft festival, drawing artisans, collectors, and enthusiasts from every corner of the globe. Picture a robust network of craft trails guiding visitors through studios, workshops, and galleries across the region. Envision a time when Pittsburgh’s name is synonymous with craft excellence. The city could leverage its industrial roots and creative ingenuity to create an economic and cultural renaissance akin to what Oaxaca has achieved. With strategic investment and community collaboration, Pittsburgh could transform its craft sector into a beacon of global recognition and local pride.
Call to Action
Pittsburgh has the potential to lead a craft renaissance, but it will require collaboration, vision, and commitment. As the CEO of the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council, I urge every individual, business, and philanthropist to join this movement. Together, we can craft a future where Pittsburgh’s artisans are celebrated, its institutions thrive, and its reputation as a global hub for craft is firmly established.
Let’s make it happen. The tools are in our hands.
Story by Patrick Fisher, Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council
Photo of work by Elise Birnbaum
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