Art on the Allegheny
By Clayton Smith
If you were asked to walk along the Allegheny River 25 years ago, you might be suspicious of whoever invited you because of the river’s long history of pollution.
Today, due to the tireless work of community organizations like Riverlife, that is no longer the case, and the previous reputation of the Allegheny River is no longer the reality.
Doors Open Pittsburgh, an organization highlighting Pittsburgh’s history and architecture, wants to ensure these improvements are well-known.
On Oct. 7 from 2-3:30 p.m. the organization will be hosting a fantastic guided tour focusing solely on the art, nature and urban landscape along the Allegheny. Ticket sales are ending soon and can be purchased for $25 through Eventbrite.
The tour will start at the Allegheny Landing, located at 39 Isabella St. and will highlight the nation's first riverfront sculpture garden curated by acclaimed public artist Ann Hamilton and designed by world-renowned landscape architect Micheal Van Valkenburgh.
Pittsburgh’s public art is on full display during this experience. The tour will lead guests past the sculpture garden and continue alongside the Allegheny, showcasing new installations that highlight famous Black Pittsburghers like Billy Porter and Wiz Khalifa, in addition to many other public art attractions.
During this Doors Open experience, art is just one of many things you'll learn about. Doors Open will explain Downtown's history and future, the Allegheny River's development and the efforts made to restore the river's ecosystem.
