MLK Mural Project

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

ALLEGHENY ARTS NEWSLETTER - January 2024

Subject: Thank You for Joining Us at the Inaugural Event and Exciting Updates!

Dear Allegheny Arts Supporters,

I hope this email finds you well. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each of you who joined us at the inaugural event for Allegheny Arts on Wednesday, January 17. Your presence and enthusiasm made the event a tremendous success, and we are truly grateful for your support.

Event Recap:

At the event, we publicly shared the aspirations of our project, emphasizing our commitment to beautifying the community and fostering collaboration with residents.

The response on our webpage has been overwhelming, with numerous individuals expressing eagerness to get involved, showcasing the vibrant enthusiasm within the community.

Despite facing unexpected challenges, such as extreme weather conditions leading to the postponement of an NFL game, we successfully executed a pop-up mural and music event. The temporary mural featuring Tomlin gained significant attention, reaching audiences worldwide and generating excitement for our project.

Next Steps and Opportunities for Involvement:

Secure Property Owner Contracts and Plan Phase 1:

We are actively working on securing contracts with property owners in designated areas, including Virgin Way, 800 block of E. Ohio St., Canal St., 16th Street Bridge Area, and Chestnut. Our goal is to activate the 800 block with containers featuring murals, an office, and space for performances.

Key steps for January to March 2024 include identifying and approaching property owners, negotiating contracts, setting up containers and an office, and planning performance spaces. We are also in the process of obtaining permissions from the city, Norfolk Southern, and Penn Dot for various elements of our project.

Steering Committee Formation:

We aim to create an 11-member steering committee with representation from all neighborhoods. Your recommendations and thoughts are crucial in forming this committee, and we encourage your input. Visit our website to express your interest in joining the steering committee.

Monthly Newsletter:

This is the Fist Monthy Newsletter : January 2024. This newsletter will provide updates, announcements, and stories from residents and partner organizations. We value your input, so feel free to share your thoughts on the content and information you'd like to see.

Collaboration Opportunities:

We are actively seeking collaboration with property owners, community partnerships, and organizations. Your recommendations for funding, new property owners, and potential partnerships are highly appreciated. Together, we can make a lasting impact on our community.

Your Involvement Matters: The website will periodically be updated to include more information and updates : mlkmural.com/Allegheny-Arts

As we move forward, your involvement is crucial to the success of Allegheny Arts. We invite you to explore ways to contribute:

Volunteer: Visit mlkmural.com/Allegheny-Arts to volunteer your time and skills.

Collaboration: If you represent an organization or have recommendations for collaborations, let us know!

Mural Ideas: Share your thoughts on what you'd like to see in murals on the 800 block. Your ideas will play a key role in shaping the visual narrative of our community future meeting with feedback, conversations and ideas will be shared soon for maximum participation and collaboration.

Thank you once again for your support and enthusiasm. Together, we are creating a transformative project that will leave a lasting legacy in Allegheny Arts.

Warm regards,

Kyle Holbrook

Executive Artist, Allegheny Arts Advisory Board

#3 “Faces of the North Side” where is a good permanent location for these mural panels that can be easily installed? What's the weather breaks with staying weather and rain for years? What are some ideas on some permanent locations?

THANK YOU!!!!!

North Side mural project will replace urban blight with colorful art- PG 1.22.24

The physical legacy keeping Mac Miller’s memory alive in Pittsburgh- The PITT News 1.19.24

New art organization seeks to beautify the Northside- Northside Chronicle 1.18.24

Steelers Daily News & Links: More Players Back Tomlin, Tomlin Mural- SteelersNOW 1.18.24

My Tomlin Mural- TriB 1.18.24

Mural of Steelers HC Mike Tomlin unveiled on Pittsburgh’s South Side- Steelers Depot 1.17.24

Mural of Steelers HC Mike Tomlin unveiled on Pittsburgh’s North Side- WPXI 1.17.24