Shaped by Steel
While there are many in our region whose family's stories were directly influenced by the steel industry, there are just as many folks whose experiences in southwestern Pennsylvania were indirectly impacted by Big Steel and its associated industries, even those who've recently made it their home.
Today's articles highlight women in our communities on both ends of that spectrum.
First up is the story of the Ciloets, a professional organization for the women of U.S. Steel, one that has been providing camaraderie, education, and charitable work since 1942!
You'll also want to read about Kathleen Ferri, a Mon Valley artist whose paintings capture "memory scenes" of her life growing up in Turtle Creek in the 1940s and her unique, birds-eye perspective of communities in and around Pittsburgh.
Oh, and if you happen to be a folk artist, like Kathleen, you might want to know about this Folk Arts Apprenticeship Grant opportunity and upcoming webinar.
Then, if you are ready, sign up to shape your own memento with hot metal...our first metal arts workshop of the year is on March 28! The Doodle Bowl Experience welcomes adults for a night of fun and creativity at the Carrie Blast Furnaces. No experience required! |
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FEATURED STORY
Shining a Light in the Ciloets
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For nearly 80 years, an organization called the Ciloets, pronounced “silhouettes," has provided a way for women who work at United States Steel to forge friendships while furthering their own professional development and supporting charitable work. Brianna Horan had an opportunity to chat with four of them, who shared their stories and reflected on the legacy of the organization. |
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HERITAGE HIGHLIGHTS
Kathleen Ferri—Artist & Historian
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Thirty-five years ago, Kathleen Ferri first picked up a brush and began chronicling her memories of growing up in the Mon Valley through colorful paintings of community scenes. Today, this collection of artworks offers a window into the past—showing not just a perspective of how things once looked, but also sharing a sense of what it felt like to be part of this unique place and time. |
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NEWS RELEASE
Rivers of Steel Announces Folk Arts Grant Opportunity
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Rivers of Steel is excited to announce the official call for applications for the 2021-2022 Master Artist and Apprenticeship Grants through the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts.
As the Folk and Traditional Arts Partner Organization representing PA Region 14, Rivers of Steel welcomes artists residing in Allegheny, Beaver, Greene, or Washington counties who are interested in submitting an application for this program to attend an informative webinar next Friday, March 26th.
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FEATURED PROGRAM
March 28, 5 – 8 p.m. at the Carrie Blast Furnaces
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Come out and join the metal artists at Rivers of Steel for our first program of the season! Introduced last year, the Doodle Bowl Experience has quickly become one of our most in-demand workshops. Located in the Power House of the Carrie Blast Furnace, this event allows for a social experience, with enough physical distancing to keep you safe and comfortable. No experience is needed, just bring your creativity, a friend, and your own beverage! |
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Help preserve our region’s industrial and cultural heritage! Your tax-deductible contribution will help ensure that Rivers of Steel can continue to offer vital, engaging, community-based arts, education, and heritage programs for the residents of southwestern Pennsylvania and beyond. |
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