Patrick Fisher

Bio

Patrick Fisher is an innovative and dynamic leader with a deep commitment to the intersection of the arts and community building. He joined the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council as CEO in 2023, bringing with him a diverse background shaped by unconventional life experiences, including traveling across North America in a van with his three-legged dog, living in a dry cabin in Alaska, and couchsurfing while traveling abroad. These experiences have solidified his sense of self and fueled his passion for using the arts as a tool for social transformation. Patrick’s career trajectory began in 2016 when he worked for the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, followed by his role as Executive Director of Erie Arts & Culture, where he deepened his dedication to fostering inclusive, community-driven cultural experiences.

As a culture worker, Patrick is dedicated to dismantling barriers to access and participation in the arts, particularly in under-resourced communities. He believes in the power of the arts to inspire individuals, organizations, and neighborhoods to move beyond survival and embrace collective aspirations. His approach is rooted in activism, with a focus on empowering residents, artists, and culture-bearers to be active participants in shaping the social and cultural fabric of their communities. Patrick’s work is centered on amplifying voices and identities, and creating spaces where people connect emotionally to the places they inhabit through creative expression. His leadership reflects a strong belief in the transformative power of the arts to build social connections, promote equity, and foster inclusive cultural engagement.