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WHEREAS, founded by Richard Johnson and Frances Niznik, Thoughtrobbers Gallery began in 2010 in a 10-by-10-foot space at Las Vegas's Emergency Arts co-op, the gallery provided a vital platform for local artists through rotating exhibitions every First Friday until 2015, quickly becoming a creative hub; and,
WHEREAS, in 2020, Richard and Frances reintroduced Thoughtrobbers Gallery to Pittsburgh's West End Village, where it has since showcased the work of more than 40 local artists, offering visibility, opportunity, and an inclusive environment for emerging creatives; and,
WHEREAS, today the gallery continues its mission in collaboration with The Oaklander Hotel, curating monthly exhibitions on the hotel's 10th floor and bringing local art into new and welcoming spaces that connect residents, visitors, and artists alike; and,
WHEREAS, Thoughtrobbers Gallery is more than a venue - it is a true community partner. The gallery actively participates in neighborhood and citywide events such as Pittsburgh Musical Theatre's Dancing in the Streets and supports nonprofits including the Salt Foundation and the Emma Munson Foundation through volunteer efforts and artist engagement; and,
WHEREAS, this season, the gallery expanded its outreach by partnering with The Oaklander Hotel, Out of the End, Inc., and Farmer Girl EB to collect children's coats and boots, helping local kids living with sickle cell disease stay warm this winter; and,
WHEREAS, the Johnson-Niznik family's deep roots in the local arts scene are further reflected through their daughter's five years of study at Pittsburgh Musical Theatre, underscoring a generational commitment to the cultural life and artistic vitality of the city; and,
WHEREAS, founder Richard Johnson is a dedicated neighborhood artist-sharing his work through community art exchanges, beautifying the West End with a sunflower garden, and volunteering daily to keep the area clean;
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Counc...
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