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WHEREAS George Gist is an accomplished artist, muralist, and jazz musician who incorporates culture and history into all of his work; and
WHEREAS commissioned on a regular basis to do murals in Pittsburgh as well as other cities, George's philosophy is that murals should be more than visually appealing, but should also depict the culture of the neighborhood; and
WHEREAS George was inspired by political groups, who, during the riots and violence of the 1960s had the idea that if people knew more about and understood the culture they were living in, there would be less violence. Agreeing with this idea, George seeks to create art that will not only beautify the neighborhood, but also send a message to everyone who sees it that will teach them about the community; and
WHEREAS in 1990, George won a national award for his "All That Jazz" mural in which 45 neighborhood children assisted him. He has painted several murals in the Pittsburgh area, and last year was commissioned to paint a mural that depicted black life by Benton Harbour, Michigan; and
WHEREAS George is listed in the book Walls of Heritage Walls of Pride by James Prigoff as one of the best African American muralists. In addition to his creativity in art, he plays with the local group Jazz, Inc. which performs both locally and all over the country; and
WHEREAS although George is originally from Detroit, Michigan, he is a Pittsburgher at heart and has made Pittsburgh his home; and
WHEREAS George is the proud father of two daughters, Mia and Melanie.
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NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby honor and recognize Mr. George Gist for his inspiration to the community through his art and activism by declaring February 17, 2009 "George Gist" Day in the City of Pittsburgh.