Legacy Arts Project Inc

- 7227 Tioga St, Pittsburgh, PA 15208

The Legacy Arts Project Inc (LAP) is a non-profit community arts organization in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, deeply committed to preserving and promoting the rich history and traditions of African art as it is expressed throughout the diaspora. Founded by Linda “Imani” Barrett, the organization was born from a deep love for the arts and a vision to create a space where community members could gather to share and celebrate their heritage. LAP is more than a cultural center; it is a conduit for artists and the community to experience a wide array of art forms, including dance, music, visual arts, and storytelling. Their mission is to use these arts to advance healing, wellness, education, and community empowerment, creating a truly unique and invaluable resource for the local Pittsburgh area.

At its core, the Legacy Arts Project believes in the power of art to unite, heal, and educate. They have built a reputation for fostering a judgment-free learning zone where people of all skill levels and backgrounds feel welcome. This inclusive atmosphere is a testament to their dedication to making African arts accessible to everyone, regardless of their prior experience. As one reviewer highlighted, even those with "minimal to no rhythm" felt welcome and supported, a clear indicator of the positive and encouraging environment the instructors create. LAP's programming is designed to be a holistic experience, connecting mind, body, and spirit through cultural expression and community engagement. This approach not only teaches artistic skills but also fosters personal growth and a deeper understanding of the African diaspora's rich heritage.

The center’s commitment to community is evident in every aspect of its operation. It is a place where elders and youth come together, learning from one another and celebrating their shared culture. This intergenerational exchange is a key part of what makes Legacy Arts Project so special. By preserving traditions and passing them down to the next generation, they are ensuring that this vital cultural legacy continues to thrive in Pittsburgh.

Located at 7227 Tioga St, Pittsburgh, PA 15208, USA, the Legacy Arts Project Inc is situated in the Homewood neighborhood, a community with a strong and vibrant cultural history. This location is central and easily accessible for residents across Pittsburgh and the surrounding regions. Being in the heart of Homewood allows the organization to be deeply embedded in the community it serves, fostering a strong sense of local pride and ownership.

Accessibility is a key feature of the facility, which includes a wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring that everyone can comfortably and safely access the center’s programs and events. This thoughtful consideration for visitors with mobility needs reflects the organization's broader commitment to inclusivity and community support. For those relying on public transportation, the location is conveniently located near public transit routes, making it easy to reach from various parts of the city. The ease of access contributes to the welcoming atmosphere, encouraging more people to participate in the enriching classes and events. The central location in a well-established neighborhood also makes it a great spot for locals to gather and connect with their community in a meaningful way.

The Legacy Arts Project offers a wide range of services designed to educate, inspire, and empower individuals through the arts of the African diaspora.

• African Dance and Drumming Classes: They are well-known for their high-quality instruction in African dance and drumming, led by master artists. These classes are open to all skill levels and are often accompanied by live drumming, creating an authentic and invigorating experience.
• Youth Programs: The organization offers a Saturday Institute and a Summer Arts Program for youth, where children learn about African culture through various art forms, including dance, drumming, visual arts, and even gardening and nutrition. These programs are designed to promote youth development and cultural exploration.
• Community Workshops: They host a variety of workshops that delve into specific art forms, such as Haitian drum class, Senegalese dance, and Afro-modern dance, led by experienced instructors.
• Performances and Events: LAP hosts annual events like the "Keepers of the Flame Awards" and "Dance Africa Pittsburgh," a multi-day festival that includes dance workshops, performances, and an African marketplace, bringing together local, regional, and international artists.
• Lectures and Storytelling: In addition to the physical art forms, the project preserves and shares African heritage through lectures and storytelling, providing a comprehensive cultural education.
• Wellness Initiatives: The "Africana Wellness Conference" and "Movement and Mixing" classes for mature adults are examples of how LAP integrates health and wellness into its artistic programming, promoting physical and mental well-being.

Legacy Arts Project Inc is distinguished by several key features and highlights that make it a truly special cultural center in Pennsylvania.

• Commitment to the African Diaspora: The organization’s unwavering focus on preserving and promoting the history and traditions of African arts sets it apart as a unique and vital cultural institution in the region.
• Live Music: The use of live djembe drumming during dance classes, as noted in a review, enhances the authenticity and energy of the experience, providing a truly immersive learning environment.
• Community-Centric Approach: The project is celebrated for creating a supportive and judgment-free zone for all participants. The welcoming atmosphere ensures that beginners and experienced individuals alike feel comfortable learning and expressing themselves.
• Intergenerational Programs: By bringing together artists and community members of all ages, from youth in their Saturday Institute to mature adults in their wellness classes, LAP fosters a rich intergenerational exchange of knowledge and culture.
• Annual Signature Events: Events like Dance Africa Pittsburgh are major cultural highlights for the city, attracting a diverse audience and showcasing a wide range of talent, from local artists to international guests.
• Accessibility: The wheelchair-accessible car park demonstrates a clear commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that the facility is open and welcoming to people with varying needs.

For more information, you can contact the Legacy Arts Project Inc directly.

Address: 7227 Tioga St, Pittsburgh, PA 15208, USA

Phone: (412) 452-3847

What is worth choosing about the Legacy Arts Project for residents of Pennsylvania is its dual role as both an educational institution and a cultural beacon. It is a place where you can learn to dance and drum, but it’s also a place where you can connect with a rich heritage and a supportive community. The positive feedback from customers, who felt welcome despite their skill level, speaks volumes about the project's dedication to its mission. Unlike a traditional dance studio, LAP offers a holistic experience rooted in cultural preservation and community empowerment. The variety of classes, from high-energy African dance to the more reflective aspects of storytelling, ensures there is something for everyone. Whether you are a parent looking for an enriching after-school activity for your child, a professional seeking a unique workout, or a retiree interested in staying active and engaged, the Legacy Arts Project provides a safe, inclusive, and deeply rewarding environment. By choosing to support and participate in their programs, you are helping to sustain a critical part of the African diaspora's legacy and contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Pittsburgh's arts scene.

Legacy Arts Project Inc

7227 Tioga St, Pittsburgh, PA 15208, USA