Primary election 2023: Allegheny County Executive candidates on the arts

Sara Innamorato

Democrat, Lawrenceville

Allegheny County has some real challenges that the arts and a vibrant cultural community can directly help us solve. Arts and culture are a population attraction and retention tool and can help us make this a better place to live for people already here and bring new people in. Arts and culture directly contribute to our tax base (hundreds of millions every year) and to the hospitality and service industries. Arts and culture have been proven over and over again to be extremely powerful tools to help people who are struggling with mental health and addiction issues and to increase understanding across differences and to reduce violence and hate. We have an amazing asset in the Regional Asset District funding program and I will continue the great work RAD does as well as find ways to make it more transparent and accessible to a more diverse group of organizations. I will also seek new opportunities to be in direct relationship with GPAC, other arts and culture institutions, and individual artists to develop and lead programming with the county through new models such as artists in residence.

Michael Lamb

Democrat, Mt. Washington

The Arts have had a major impact on my life. In fact, at Penn State I was originally accepted into the school of Arts and Architecture as a Theater Arts major. I had a passion for both writing and scenic design and, while my major changed, my love for the Arts did not.

My wife Jill and I remain members of the Carnegie and enjoy our occasional trip to the museums. Our last visit was for the Pompeii Exhibit at the Carnegie Science Center. I served for some time on the development committee of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and know well the impact the Arts have on our community.

A dynamic Arts scene is critical to a vibrant community. And Pittsburgh continues to be the best Art and Cultural Attraction City of any City its size. Between our symphony, ballet, opera, museums, galleries, and theaters and all of the other organizations and venues that make up the Pittsburgh Arts community, I am looking forward to continuing the growth and development of the Arts in Allegheny County.

William Parker

Democrat, Garfield

The arts have had a huge impact in my life. To me, art is an expression that can tell a story in so many ways which, in my opinion, allows our minds to open and imagine beyond its original form. One of the best things about Allegheny County is how colorful it is, from the local music scene to the paintings, beautiful places and people who live here, there’s a lot to enjoy. 

Personally, art has made me more patient, I have taken more time out to develop my approach when dealing with anything as a result of my appreciation for it. Many of my genuine relationships have been made through art and artist collaboration. As I travel around Allegheny County, I’m always on the lookout for new murals, sculptures, and designs that catch my eyes. 

As a child, I think my fascination for art and its creation came from watching my mother draw and sew clothing, seeing all different patterns really sparked the creative in me. My early experiences with art have made me aware of how important it is to our communities and that’s why, if I’m elected as the next county executive, I will financially invest in more resources including artist’s supplies, stipends and residencies along with educational and entrepreneurial programs for ALL. I want to thank everyone that I’ve met along my artful journey, you’ve each inspired me and I’m forever grateful. And lastly, I just want to say no matter how big or small it’s envisioned by others, “Own Your Art!!!”

Joe Rockey

Republican, Ohio Township

There is no question that Pittsburgh’s rich cultural life is a vital part of the fabric of our community and a major attraction to people coming here from elsewhere. The same is true of the wide range of local museums, libraries, musical groups, arts festivals, and theatrical productions. I am committed to doing all I can to foster this tremendous aspect of life here in Allegheny County.

John Weinstein

Democrat, Kennedy Township

One of our great resources is the tremendous cultural landscape home right here in our region. I have long taken great joy in the beauty and inspiration derived from our vibrant arts community, as have countless others for decades. It also provides a financial boom to the region, attracting millions in tourism dollars that help support our theaters, our service industries, our infrastructure, and our community as a whole. As Executive, I fully intend to be invested as an active ambassador for our local arts both as an audience member and because of its significant role as a treasured resource for this region.