Point Park University's Student-Run Newspaper

Point Park Globe

Point Park University's Student-Run Newspaper

Point Park Globe

Point Park University's Student-Run Newspaper

Point Park Globe

Art center hopes to ‘make dent in art world’

After walking through the parking lot and up a slight hill and stairs, an intrigued artist can find their home.

A large, tan building gives off a welcoming vibe to the visitor who can walk inside and down a flight of steps, hearing the faint sound of a wheel rotating.

Welcome to boot camp-ceramics style.

“It’s fun to get dirty and do something with clay…I probably haven’t done [ceramics] since grade school,” said Pittsburgh resident Anne Weber, who was a first time visitor.

Ceramic boot camp is just one of many classes offered at the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts (PCA), of Shadyside. Courses offered vary by experience level and targeted age group, having something for just about everyone wishing to express themselves in some way in one of many art forms.

The PCA, founded in 1945, began working with Pittsburgh Filmmakers in 2004.

“We want to work with other universities, and we want to offer more master workshops for experienced artists,” said Josh Andra, director of studio arts programs, while mentioning the PCA’s future goals, which also included rebuilding the wood kiln used for firing ceramic pieces.

Though currently working with Filmmakers, where some Point Park University students take courses, PCA is beginning a partnership with Point Park in the fall, offering two courses, foundation drawing and wheel throwing, for students to take at the center.

Along with students and others being able to take courses, PCA also welcomes artists from all over into their Access program, where artists can pay a membership fee and use the studio whenever available.

“It’s a god send,” said Tom Ladousa, an avid artist for decades, referring to PCA.

Ladousa, who previously taught in a Louisiana university for 32 years, came to Pittsburgh in June and began looking for work. Being one of the Access members, he is now looking forward to teaching classes to PCA visitors and help them “make a dent in the art world.”

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