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Poster on a utility pole reads Protect the Arts in bold letters. It is near an intersection with a white van on the street and brick buildings in the background. Another flyer is partially visible on the pole.

Photo Illustration by Lisa Cunningham

Demystifying the Arts |

When the Arts Are Attacked, Democracy Is at Risk

The threats we’re seeing today aren’t new. They follow a familiar and dangerous pattern of artistic censorship and repression. But the arts have also long been at the forefront of social and political resistance. What can artists, cultural organizations, and supporters do to prevent history from repeating itself? Here, we look to the past and offer suggestions on how to start mobilizing for resistance.

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A group of people engaged in conversation at an event. A torn paper effect features the text Demystifying the Arts below the group. The focus is on two women in the forefront, one wearing a yellow shirt.

Demystifying the Arts |

How Intermediaries Amplify Impact and Strengthen Ecosystems

Intermediaries play a crucial but often overlooked role in strengthening the nonprofit ecosystem. Learn more on how organizations like the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council serve as connectors between funders and service providers, providing essential programs, amplifying impact, and ensuring resources are used strategically and equitably.

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Artwork is displayed inside a building. The words Demystifying the Arts is placed on top

The Ohringer Gallery features artwork from current and past artist residents including Cue Perry, Natiq Jalil, and Kiarra Melodi // Photo courtesy of Cue Perry

Demystifying the Arts |

Affordable Housing for Artists: A New Opportunity for Artists in Pittsburgh’s Cultural District

The rapid appreciation of housing in Pittsburgh has made it increasingly difficult for artists to afford living and working spaces, raising concerns about the erosion of the city’s creative fabric. However, an opportunity has emerged to help artists secure stable, affordable housing in Downtown Pittsburgh.

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  • Artwork of Pittsburgh Steelers player Minkah Fitzpatrick

    Demystifying the Arts |

    Where Arts and Sports Collide: Seizing Pittsburgh’s NFL Draft Moment

    We often think of the arts as either in competition with or in contention against sports, but the truth is that arts and sports have more in common than they have in difference. Ahead of Pittsburgh hosting the NFL Draft in 2026, CEO Patrick Fisher shares ideas that could bring Pittsburgh’s arts sector into the heart of the upcoming National Football League experience.

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  • A white woman creates a glass object inside a workshop

    Demystifying the Arts |

    Pittsburgh: An Emerging Global Hub for Craft Excellence

    Pittsburgh—celebrated for its legacy arts institutions, thriving artistic talent, and industrial ingenuity—is poised to become a national and international destination for craft.

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  • A Latine band plays on stage. Text reads, Demystifying the Arts

    Demystifying the Arts |

    Standing Together in Uncertain Times: The Arts as a Pathway to Justice and Freedom

    In Demystifying the Arts, CEO Patrick Fisher speaks of wrestling with the same unsettling questions that many of you are facing. The world feels more uncertain than ever. Policies once designed to protect our most vulnerable are being dismantled. Harmful ideologies, once whispered in the shadows, are now openly expressed and legitimized through legislation. But, as Patrick shares, the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council's commitment remains unwavering.

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  • A Latinx person in a baseball cap and green long-sleeved shirt holds up an aerosol can to a brightly colored graffiti wall as two onlookers, shown from behind, watch the demonstration

    Demystifying the Arts |

    Graffiti as a Cultural Bridge: Lessons from Pittsburgh and Beyond

    What if communities viewed graffiti as a form of cultural expression rather than criminal activity? Graffiti is an artform worth celebrating and embracing into city's cultural identities. Here are 10 actionable ways to support graffiti and street artists who are often unsung heroes within their neighborhoods.

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  • A cut-out photo of a smiling white man with short brown hair is placed on top of a purple background and text placed on cut-out pieces of paper reading, Demystifying the Arts: Insights from the CEO of the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council.

    Demystifying the Arts |

    Rethinking Engagement Strategies with New Technologies

    Welcome to Demystifying the Arts, a new arts & culture column from Patrick Fisher, CEO at the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council

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