History
Laying Groundwork for a immersive and inspirational creative destination
the First of its’ Kind in the Tri-State Area
The natural beauty of Southwestern Pennsylvania often takes visitors by surprise. But for the artists who call it home, the rivers, mountains, and change in seasons are inspiration. Travel Lemming patrons named our region the 3rd most beautiful globally. Country Magazine called out one of our small towns as 2nd best in the nation.
These facts are just a part of what motivated River Art Works to seek out 30-40 acres as a place for artists to gather and create, art organizations to collaboratively streamline operational needs, entrepreneurial artists to get needed support and business instruction, and a creative technology center with cutting edge exhibitions. Since 2018 justification for a hub, a gathering place for the arts in our region, has been the focus of our organization. What we have found is that we could write a 200 page thesis about the impact an art center would have on our region and it still would not cover the most compelling statistics.
The Victorian to Mid Modern ages were the shining years for the arts in Westmoreland and surrounding Counties. The need to encourage and support the growing number of art centers was evident to the artists who established a hub (that later disappeared in 1990). During this prolific time the region supported many globally recognized artists. Since the loss of this hub, art center numbers declined by 30% with two more near extinction. These are some favorite statics presented by the PA Art and Culture Caucus in 2022:
River Art Works research shows that these numbers can be greatly increased right here in Westmoreland County. Given a hybrid opportunity as blended entrepreneurial and non-profit in the right location could add millions to these numbers. The well-developed tourism belt between 7 Springs Ski Resort to Ligonier would provide a solid base that is not commonly found. We seek to place the center on this belt.
In the meantime, we continually work to expand our impact, working within communities. We began to develop relationships in the youthful and creative community with ArtTEK for TEENS. We began rebuilding the hub by gathering the arts together as the Greater Westmoreland Arts Coalition. We have established interesting fundraisers and community events.
River Art Works is a 501c3 and EITC tax status with great potential to: increase tourism, quality STEAM employment training, reverse population decline and be the first artist retreat in Westmoreland county. CNN has listed River Art Works as one of a 1000 Points of Light, are platinum on Candid, and are certified as EITC ready.