PITTSBURGH?
Sometimes you get surprised in a good way. My recent and first time work trip to Pittsburgh was like that, a good surprise. The people were incredibly hospitable and the place was far prettier than I had imagined with lots to do downtown and lots to do near the water. They are not that interesting but I wanted to share some pictures with you anyway since Pittsburgh is not on most people's vacation destination target lists. It was definitely not on mine.
It is a city of bridges. 446 to be exact. It is also home of The Nickelodeon, the world's first theater devoted to motion pictures, the first polio vaccine, the first Bingo, and the first pull tabs on cans.
It would be a really great place if they could get their dino problem under control.
Took a tour of PNC stadium but my pictures came out crappy.
My hotel was in the Pitt U area which was pretty.
The Cathedral of Learning.
One evening I went to
Trundle Manor for a private tour by the illustrious hosts and owners, Mr. Arm and his lady fair, Velda.
They have a fondness for hillbillies...
and bears and absinthe.
Mr. Arm's first moustache. He's sentimental like that.
Letter from a fan.
Mummified cat, just because.
The highlight of my trip was visiting the Andy Warhol Museum. Andy was from Pittsburgh. Although there is a much more extensive collection to be found in New York, this little gem had plenty to keep any Warhol lover happy. One of the people to help run it is Andy's nephew Donald Warhola, one of the nicest blokes ever. He's there quite often giving talks but the day I went he gave us a personal tour that lasted close on two hours. It was filled with so many great antecdotes and tender moments. Even in times of privation his immigrant parents understood Andy was different and nurtured that talent. Andy's family was very close and it seems that no matter how big he got, he always had time for family. Donald had a lot of tasty gossip too. The studio was open so I got to silk screen a couple of t-shirts. If you ever find yourself in town and like artful happenings, you should check it out.
