ALLEGHENY ARTS NEWSLETTER - MARCH 2024

ALLEGHENY ARTS

ALLEGHENY Arts Community Newsletter - March 2024

Hello ALLEGHENY Arts Community,

I trust this newsletter finds you all in good spirits and health. Happy Women’s History Month, I look forward to together creating visual tributes in the future to some of the amazing women in our history like Pauline Wormser Frank, Rachel Carson, Phoebe Brashear, Marie Lou Williams and recently like Mrs. Arnold (My mothers long time friend whom I did murals in her school).

It is with great enthusiasm that I provide you with an update on the current status of Allegheny Arts project:

Since August 2023, I have had the privilege of spearheading ALLEGHENY Arts as the Executive Artist, alongside a dedicated team of individuals from MLK Mural who have been instrumental in shaping the vision of this project. Together, we have achieved significant milestones, including the creation of proposals, development of the logo and website, budget, timelines, process, ideas, establishment of partnerships with community groups and organizations, and the crafting of an implementation plan.

It's essential to clarify that all aspects of ALLEGHENY Arts, from its inception to its execution, have been driven by my expertise and the collaborative efforts of my team. As someone with extensive experience in executing large-scale projects globally, I have poured my heart and soul into this endeavor, driven by a deep-rooted commitment to the community.

I am proud to announce that we have secured the support of the largest company in our region for a multi-year commitment, as well as the enthusiastic participation of several youth organizations. These partnerships underscore the potential impact and value that ALLEGHENY Arts holds for our community.

Furthermore, I want to reiterate that ALLEGHENY Arts, including its name and core ideas, is my intellectual property. As such, any involvement in the project without my direct oversight is a violation of intellectual property laws and will be subject to legal consequences. My intention in safeguarding the project's integrity is to ensure that it remains a community-driven initiative, free from any ulterior motives or commercial interests. Even under a new name the idea(s) remain my exclusive intellectual property.

Regrettably, recent developments have necessitated the reconstruction of our advisory board. Aside from Allie (see letter link below), the individuals who comprised the initial board were exemplary in their dedication, the circumstances surrounding its formation have led us to reevaluate our approach. I want to express my gratitude to each member for their contributions and assure them that this decision is not a reflection of their commitment or character.

As we chart a new course forward, I am excited about the opportunity to engage with the community in a more inclusive and transparent manner. ALLEGHENY Arts is not merely a project; it is a collective endeavor aimed at enriching the cultural landscape of our city and empowering its residents.

I am inviting those who share our vision for ALLEGHENY Arts to join us in this journey by participating in the formation of our new advisory board. Together, we can harness the creative potential of our community and bring ALLEGHENY Arts to life in a way that benefits us all.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to this project. I look forward to the exciting chapters that lie ahead for ALLEGHENY Arts and our community as a whole.

Respectfully,

Kyle Holbrook

Executive Artist, ALLEGHENY Arts

ALLEGHENY ARTS - NEWSLETTER - February 2024

ALLEGHENY ARTS - NEWSLETTER - February 2024 -

Dear Allegheny Arts Community,

As we move forward into the second installment of our annual newsletter, we are thrilled to share exciting updates with you. ALLEGHENY Arts is currently in the planning stages, establishing vital relationships throughout the community for future collaborations. We have been actively attending community meetings, gathering feedback, and refining our vision for artistic programming and events.

We did one mural to celebrate Black History Month and raise funds for the Urban League of Pittsburgh on the NorthSide at Rivers Casino on February 16th.

In the coming weeks, we will be announcing the formation of an 11-member steering committee, representing the diversity and richness of our community. This committee will play a pivotal role in guiding our initiatives forward, ensuring that our programming remains inclusive and representative of our shared values.

We are delighted to spotlight Jermaine Cuyler, a valued member of our advisory board, in this newsletter. Jermaine's contributions to the community embody the spirit of ALLEGHENY Arts, and we are grateful for his dedication and passion.

At ALLEGHENY Arts, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to working with organizations and individuals to enhance our community aesthetically and artistically. Our upcoming Street Art Festival in September promises to be a highlight of our programming, showcasing the vibrancy and creativity of our city.

Looking ahead, we are excited to announce that youth programming will commence next school year, with a target start date in September. We are already in the planning stages for this initiative and look forward to engaging with schools and afterschool programs in our community.

Lastly, we will be sharing preliminary landscape designs and aerial views of the possible arrangement of the Mural Museum near the 16th St. bridge area in the coming months. These developments represent just a glimpse of the exciting future ahead for ALLEGHENY Arts.

As always, your input and suggestions are invaluable to us and always open here: Together, we can continue to build a more vibrant and prosperous community through the power of art.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication.

Respectfully,

Kyle Holbrook

Executive Artist

ALLEGHENY Arts

Jermaine Cuyler - ALLEGHENY ARTS - Advisory Board

Jermaine Cuyler hails from Rochester, NY, where he was born and raised before embarking on a journey that would eventually lead him to Pittsburgh. His path began when he enrolled at Robert Morris University, where he not only pursued a degree in Business Marketing but also excelled as a football player. Following his college years, Jermaine ventured into the realm of sales, initially starting his career in Washington, DC. However, his heart was set on returning to Pittsburgh, a city he now proudly calls home since 2004. With a passion for sales and a desire to make a difference, Jermaine found fulfillment in the field of oncology, dedicating the past 16 years of his career to this noble cause. Presently serving as the Director of Sales at RefleXion, a leading manufacturer of Radiation Therapy equipment used in cancer treatment, Jermaine continues to make a significant impact in the healthcare industry.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Jermaine is deeply committed to serving his community. Drawing inspiration from his parents, who instilled in him the value of service from a young age, Jermaine actively contributes to various causes. He currently sits on the Board of Directors of the Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh (WC&S), where he channels his passion for making a positive difference. Additionally, Jermaine has been a resident of Deutschtown since 2009, where he has also invested in real estate, fostering his interest in community, commerce, and architecture. His involvement in the neighborhood extends further as he serves on the advisory board of Allegheny Arts, aiming to enhance the presence of art in the northside. With a vision to illuminate the essence of Deutschtown through artistic endeavors, Jermaine is dedicated to leveraging the transformative power of the arts to enrich and enliven his beloved community.

National Nurse Month Mural

4 views May 4, 2023 #BANUSCRUBS

National Nurses Month Mural #BANUSCRUBS To show gratitude and appreciation for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to patient care What: A 20’ x 87’ Mural to honor Nurses in Hospital District. When: Wednesday, May 3rd at 11am. Were: 1355 NW 21st St, Miami, FL 33142 Why: May is National Nurses Month. It is an opportunity to show gratitude and appreciation for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to patient care. National Nurses Month is an annual celebration that honors nurses and the vital role they play in healthcare. This year, it will be observed from May 1 to May 31, 2023. To pay tribute to frontline staff and healthcare workers during the third anniversary of COVID-19 pandemic. The Mural is painted on Blue Angel Nurses Uniforms and seen daily by hundreds of healthcare workers, the mural shows appreciation for them all. The Artist Lost two mentors, Bob Tortorette and Artist George Gist to Covid-19 and wanted to show his appreciation for healthcare workers and their commitment to the community. Artist Kyle Holbrook has done murals in 43 countries and 49 states often with the mentally or physically disabled and partnering with healthcare professionals. Dr. Susan O’rourke and Dr. Mary Burke have partnered with the artist in Uganda, Nicaraugua, Ireland and Israel on murals, his respect for Healthcare workers is shown by painting angel wings on them in the mural. Kyle has painted several murals in Haiti at The Hopital Albert Schweiter in Deschapelles recieving a grant from the United National in 2011 post earthquake. Holbrook’s daughter will be starting medical school in the fall, this mural is in part a tribute to her and the important work she will be doing. Thursday marks the three year Anniversary of the Tiger King wearing a mask surrounded by Health care workers as a tribute to frontline workers. The Mural is close to Miami Dade college Medical campus and seen by many aspiring Healthcare workers, the mural is intended to instill pride in their future career goals. How: Artist Kyle Holbrook is painting the mural with brushes and acrylic paints live (in progress). Nurses of different races, ages and genders are depicted as angels on the mural. Free Nurses Lab Coats will be given away all day with a 10% discount to anyone who tags themselves in front of the mural with hashtag #banuscrubs. Who: Blue Angel Nurses Uniforms and Banu Scrubs sponsored the mural painted by local Miami and Internationally recognized Artist Kyle Holbrook and Moving Lives of Kids Arts Center MLKmural.com, Julia Cahill painting the Nurse with her eyes closed inspired by a nurse that was walking into Blue Angels. She also did much the concrete restoration. “Let us take a moment to honor and thank all the angels on earth who have dedicated their lives to caring for others. We owe them a debt of gratitude for all they do, and we can never repay the kindness and compassion they show to us each and every day. For all of these reasons we are going to give out a free lab coat to all the medical professionals who come by our location to celebrate them and the unveiling of our new mural dedicated to the Medical professionals in our community. Come by on May 3, 2023 to receive your free lab coat. Remember nurses are our angels in This world” -Blue Angel Nurses Uniforms

PGH ART PARK at Salems Event #2

Artist Ebtehal Badawi and Dana Morris at PGH ART PARK at Salems Market and Grill 8/21/22

Urban Collaborative Baltimore

Miami Grand prix formula One Kyle Holbrook Mural

The Miami Grand Prix is a Formula One Grand Prix which forms part of the 2022 Formula One World Championship, with the event taking place at the Miami International Autodrome on a ten-year contract.

Covid-19 as an artist

Bless you all!

_ Artworld …

https://www.amazon.com/Art-Life-Mac-Miller/dp/B086M9H5TG/ref=sr_1_3?crid=9FMLCOQT5JLX&dchild=1&keywords=art+of+life&qid=1586371871&s=instant-video&sprefix=art+of+life%2Cinstant-video%2C221&sr=1-3

Interview with artist Ivan Roque

1) Every artist has a unique story what is your background as an artist?

I was born and raised in Miami, FL on the northern side of the county to Cuban refugees. I was always able to create art and it wasn't till I graduated from high school that I decided to pursue art as a career. Its been a long road even to the point a few years ago when I was practically homeless. Fortunately I got past those dark times and now I've been fortunate enough to live full time off this for the past 3 years.

2) What was your experience working with MLK mural, what locations?

MLK Murals was a fun project definitely learned a thing or two and I worked at the Opa Locka project off 27 Ave.

3) What is your thoughts on the importance of youth art education?

Youth art education serves many purposes such as freedom of expression, therapy and teaches the youth that there is more to life than what is already in front of them.

4) Can you share your experience with Public art affecting communities?

The beauty of public art is that it connects with people from all walks of life without the traditional gallery setting and more of the true reality in nature.

5) Where can people view your work and what are some upcoming projects you would like to let people know about?

People can view my work on my website at www.IVANROQUE.com or on instagram @ivanjroque .

Interview with Artist Roberto Manoly

1) Every Artist has a unique story what is your background as an artist?

Visual artist born In PAP, Haiti,

Traveled back and forth between Haiti and the States (NYC) since 1982 before settling in Miami in the summer of 1994

Studied Graphic Design at Miami Dade College and learned photography while working as an assistant in the dark room at Miami Dade College.

Manoly works predominantly as a freelance photographer, but his passion since a kid always been drawing and painting.

He has exhibited at Precision Art back in 2010, The New Yorker hotel, and painted live the past years at various locations during the international art fest "Art Basel"

2) What was your experience work with MLK Mural, what location(s)?

I had a one of a kind experience working with MLK mural during Miami Art Week 2018

Location: 20th street and NW 2nd Ave. in Overtown.

3) What is your thoughts on the importance of youth art education?

I think youth art education is vital, especially for inner city youths. It provide ways for them to express while learning about culture and community

4) Can you share your experience with Public Art affecting communities?

Yes, my public art experience have a direct effect on communities, especially the youths, inspiring and sparking conversations.

5) Were can we find more of your work?

My work can be seen on my site: https://rmanoly.wixsite.com/mysite

Artist Andreana Diaz Interview

1) Every artist has a unique story what is your background as an artist?

My story as an artist begins as a toddler. I have pictures of me drawing in school and seemingly super focused. The next vivid memories I have involving art are of my bedroom as a 13 year old girl. I spent a lot of time in my room creating and for some reason I didn't like the concept of having blank space on my walls so I worked hard every day to cover every small space. Each section of my walls had something different on it whether it have been a smaller space separated by a dresser or door or even my ceilings. For my ceiling, I decided to put together pieces of construction paper to create a Dominican flag. Next, I remember making cartoons for my friends with their names on them in middle school. I still wonder if any of them have them to this day because I'd love to see what my creativity was like back then. At this point, I wasn't really familiar with the fact that other artists existed and I barely even grasped the fact that I myself was an artist. I just loved to create. Next, in high school, I got involved with an art class and eventually ended up spending my lunch period in the studio to be able to have extra time to create. It was amazing to have so many materials and so much creativity around me and I began to flourish. My skills expanded and I had a lot of work to be able to showcase if I had wanted to. I spent less time with my friends during my senior year and spent a lot more time with my art. I felt way more connected with my creations than with people who I didn't feel shared the same passions as me or even worse, didn't have any passions at all. I did three big, memorable projects during high school. The first was a big poster that said "FRESHMEN 2013" in graffiti with our school colors that ended up all over Facebook because I guess my class found it cool. The second was helping paint murals on the walls inside the cafeteria. I remember that it took several days and I was so excited to participate each and every day. I don't remember what we had painted. The next was a sign that was bigger than the size of a door that was for a huge Spanish heritage event. I was excited that I had been asked to create it and had spent endless hours zoning in and perfecting it. After high school, I felt a bit lost and was grateful to have found my love for art again in 2015 as a 19 year old. I discovered my true love for art and painted for the first time on my own on canvas. I was told by the only person who had really seen all my art that it was too good to not show anyone and that pushed me to release everything and show off who I am. I created a business named Andreana's Art and sold many paintings for holidays such as Mother's Day and Christmas. It felt so good to have clients and to be able to do what I loved. This is when I started recognizing myself as an artist and understanding what I had to offer to others. As I developed my business, I started to gain friends who were artists and doing the same things I do. I loved hearing about all of their projects and collaborating with them. It was more meaningful than majority of the activities I had done with others in my lifetime. I was making art that wasn’t only unique to me but unique to the people I cared about too! It was great. The next level of my career as an artist began when I started traveling and painting. I’ve spent a lot of time in New York City (Union Square) displaying my art in front of those passing by but what was even more exciting was producing art in front of an audience on Lincoln Road in Miami and on Ocean Drive. I was able to meet new clients and people that were so happy to experience my art. I especially loved working with the children and sitting alongside them while they drew and painted with me or their loved ones. During this time I was also using my talents to help me have somewhere to stay since money was tight. I provided my services as an artist to a hotel and Air BNB by creating murals for them in exchange for a room. It was an exhilarating experience and it's cool to know that I can tell people to go or go back myself and check out my art whenever I want. Throughout the past few years, as I started spending more time in NY for school (I’ve never studied art in college), I was doing a lot of events where I’d display my art or paint live. I’ve also had my art held by models on the runway during fashion shows. I create clothing with painted designs, sell them, and use them for shows and photoshoots. Most recently, I participated in a face painting event in Deer Park, NY which was a huge success! I also made a mural with MLK murals in NYC for PAL! That was awesome. My latest success is having a local brewery wanting to include my artwork in their building for all the customers to see and potentially purchase! I’m looking forward to expanding and new, awesome experiences. I will always be an artist, everyone knows me as an artist and everything I do revolves around art. That will never stop.

2) What was your experience working with MLK mural, what locations?

Recently, I worked for MLK Murals on a piece for the Police Athletic League. We worked in Harlem, NY at an elementary school. It was an extremely unique experience. Kyle Holbrook was exceptionally professional and provided me with great instructions and supplies before beginning. The children worked alongside us and each had a story to tell. They were able to contribute creatively and it was inspiring to watch their focus at such a young age. They seemed to work well with me and appreciate my artistic skills. I loved instructing them because they were respectful and hard working. My favorite part about my participation was seeing the mural completed. I only contributed to the final details but they made a big difference. Recognizing that something started off as a blank canvas and seeing the final result is intriguing. The progress in such a short amount of time was insane and we were all proud of our work. My favorite part of all Kyle Holbrook’s murals are the people and the emotion and movement behind them. This mural was special because it was showcasing the children’s athletic abilities and sports so the movement was extremely energized through the art. I believe that MLK Murals has extreme potential as an art franchise and I love the way that things are done with this company.

3) What is your thoughts on the importance of youth art education?

My thoughts on the importance of youth art education are that this is a vital part of their growth! Children need to understand who they are creatively and have outlets to learn and produce art in order to discover themselves! It is undervalued in communities and this is so unfortunate. Children need to be able to have freedom to express themselves and the best way in through art! I’m passionately pursuing educating children artistically and I will never stop! Everywhere I go, whenever there is an opportunity, I shine my light on children and create with them. I walk around with drawing and painting tools majority of the time so I can do exactly that. I constantly see children bored and unengaged and this worries me. They should always be creatively expressing themselves to stay out of trouble. They can’t constantly be dependent on phones from their parents or any other tool for distraction or for the parents to be left alone or “get a break”. The youth years are vital for expansion of the brain and creativity. We need to make sure we’re constantly pushing art and creative expression on children or else they will slowly lose touch with who they are. It’s easy to lose sight of your special and unique talents when society ignores them or tells you to focus your energy on things that you aren’t passionate about. Children NEED to find their passion; early! In school, art classes are not enough and we need to find out what it is that triggers students/children to want to engage because this is where there passion lies and these passions are where they will contribute best to their communities. Where they excel is where they will have the most to offer but we need to help them deliver by providing the best art education possible!

4) Can you share your experience with Public art affecting communities?

I believe that public art has a humongous effect on communities. I’ve seen people look at murals like the best things they’ve ever seen. There are people traveling from places that have NO art that come to places like Miami or New York City and are in amazement and shock at how beautiful our buildings are because of art. The effect that public art has on communities is limitless. People get inspired and achieve goals based on artwork that they see. When the artist is efficient, they provide messages to their audiences that they can’t find anywhere else. We need art EVERYWHERE to be able to effect people in a positive manner. It’s so important that we continuously are provided art to people who need it most. No community is an exception. Every community needs art and the sooner they have it, the better. We need to supply communities with art for their betterment. It shouldn’t always need to be a big discussion either because the effects of the artwork speak for themselves. Public art attracts more tourists, business, togetherness and most importantly, more HAPPINESS! People get so happy when they see murals. When it comes to public theatrical art, this is important also and sometimes undervalued. People have great story telling skills and performances in public have power to change people’s perspectives on certain life matters that affect us all. 

5) Where can people view your work and what are some upcoming projects you would like to let people know about?

People can find my work on Facebook, Instagram, my website, online, or at any of the events I participate in. There are also reviews on my work and work ethic which you can discover on any of those platforms. As stated previously, I’m extremely excited to have my work displayed at a new brewery in Brooklyn, NY. The address is 52 Harrison Place, Brooklyn, NY, 11237. Other projects which I look forward to are runway events which are upcoming in Brooklyn, NY and Miami, Florida. I look forward to working with MLK Murals nationally and I also look forward to any other spontaneous and great opportunities that are placed in my path with purpose. Thank you for considering me and checking out some of my work!

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