Mia Hooper
(she/her)
Illustration by Camden Yandel
Chief Operating Officer 412.391.2060 x222 mhooper@pittsburghartscouncil.org
Joined the Arts Council in May 2019
Oversees the organization's internal staff, systems, and processes. Mia also translates the Arts Council’s strategic priorities into actionable and sustainable steps for the organization.
A little bit about Mia
What artist were you into when you were 15?
I always liked Fernando Botero’s sculptures. They are both fun and whimsical, while still serving as political commentary. Still, to this day, his work is my favorite.
What’s your earliest creative memory?
Creating dances with my older cousin. Tubthumping by Chumbowamba was the song. We naturally had to then perform it for the entire family on some holiday. We both still remember the dance we made up together.
What do you view as art that’s not traditionally viewed as art?
I think food is art, especially pastry arts. What people are able to do with baked goods is really impressive. On a regular basis, I go to Patti’s Pasticceria in White Oak to get both yummy and adorable treats.
Who is the last Pittsburgh musical artist that you streamed?
Probably Clara Kent. Her style is R&B. I listen to her EP quite frequently actually. She also hosts a radio show at WYEP called More Bounce, that celebrates music and culture from the African Diaspora.
What’s the tastiest local lunch spot you’ve visited this season?
I recently discovered Alihan’s downtown on Sixth Street. Very good Turkish food.