scape Travelscape by Roberta Graff The Smog Has Lifted When, in the early 80’s the steel and coal industries were no longer the life blood of Pittsburgh, this industrial powerhouse went into a rapid decline. The smoky city of heavy industry where the skies were dark with soot by midday, lost both jobs a nd families. However, after more than three decades, the smog has lifted, and the arts as well as an international commitment to sustainable practices has elevated Pittsburgh into one of the best places in the world to live. It was time for a visit. Technology as well as a commitment from government, business, philanthropy and nonprofit communities have reclaimed, redefined and reinvented Pittsburgh making it an exciting destination. Their world famous symphony and excellent theater are part of An exhibit from “Killer Heels: The Art of the High-Heeled Shoe” the forward thinking cultural scene, and the city, is vibrant with many grand public and corporate places, integrating art into their design. As for museums, there are several worthy of a detour. The Andy Warhol Museum, home to a collection by the man who transformed contemporary Frick Art and Historical Center art is a provocative and challenging experience. There are seven floors of drawings, prints, paintings, sculpture, film and video and the work of other artists. Warhol was born and educated in Pittsburgh and moved to New York at 21. He became one of the country’s leading commercial artists and illustrators eventually turning his attention to silk screening. His subjects ranged from icons of consumerism and celebrities to sober images of death and disaster, which brought him critical acclaim. In addition, he embraced filmmaking, photography and magazine publishing. He eased the distinctions between fine art and popular culture, creating art that ignored established restrictions. Along with Andrew Carnegie, who opened the first steel mill in 1875; electrical industry entrepreneur George Westinghouse; H. J. Heinz of the world-famous food company with the iconic eponymous ketchup brand; and glassmaker and union leader, Joseph G. Armstrong; Henry Clay Frick was one of the millionaires of America’s Gilded Age who lived in Pittsburgh and contributed to its cultural heritage. The Frick Art Museum is filled with early Italian Renaissance paintings, sculpture and decorative art from the 14th–18th century, which makes it all the more surprising to find an exhibit, “Killer Heels: The Art of the High-Heeled Shoe,” on view until September 4th. This exhibition explores fashion’s most provocative accessory from 18th century silk slippers to today’s glamorous stilettos and is really a kick. Another must see is Clayton, the meticulously restored historic home of the Frick family. This is a chance to see daily life in Pittsburgh during the Gilded Age. The house features the original furnishings and is stunning. The smoky city is a postindustrial center for innovation and creativity. With its magnificent plazas, featuring Philip Johnson designed plateglass buildings, green space, cultural activities, exciting culinary scene, outdoor art exhibits and strong emphasis on recycling and sustainable consumption, one can see how it is possible to turn a city around. For more info, go to Andy Warhol Museum VisitPittsburgh.com. 46 North Shore Towers Courier n July 2016
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