Lawrenceville Space

Where art comes to life!

Contemporary Craft has relocated to its new, permanent home in the Upper Lawrenceville neighborhood in Pittsburgh, PA and opened its doors to the public on September 3, 2020.

A New Space for Creativity and a Cultural gateway for Upper Lawrenceville

Contemporary Craft is ready for a transformation. We are excited to be open in our new, permanent home in Pittsburgh’s Upper Lawrenceville neighborhood at 5645 Butler Street!

A bold and sustainable future in this new home will build on Contemporary Craft’s guiding principles: artistic excellence, inclusion and engagement, and socially conscious arts leadership.

The $5.5 million-dollar facility provides a space for inspiration, contemplation, and creativity in everyday life and serve as a cultural gateway for Upper Lawrenceville as well as a new tourist destination for the region.

Here is 20-minute video of the press event on February 14, 2019 in our Upper Lawrenceville new home! The video includes our Executive Director Janet McCall’s vision for the new home and remarks from 7 guest speakers.

Press Release & News

Community Testimonials About Our Transformational Relocation

“I am thrilled that Contemporary Craft was able to find a new home that will enable them to continue their mission of engaging the public in creative experiences through contemporary craft. They are a tremendous asset for our city and our region and will be a great addition to the bustling neighborhood of Lawrenceville.”

– Wayne D. Fontana, Pennsylvania State Senator

“As RAD celebrates its 25th anniversary of making impactful public investments throughout Allegheny County for all residents and visitors to enjoy, it is only fitting that we also celebrate one of our long-time assets, Contemporary Craft, as they prepare their new home ensuring that they continue to be a most vital and integral part of our community’s cultural fabric.”

– Dan Griffin, Board Chair, Allegheny Regional Asset District

“When we found out last spring that we would have to leave our home of 33 years, we were very disappointed. But it’s turned out to be a wonderful opportunity. We have found an exciting building in an exciting location that will allow us to grow and thrive as we look to the future.”

– Susan Golomb, Board Chair, Contemporary Craft

“I am thrilled that Contemporary Craft has found a permanent home. As the daughter of Contemporary Craft’s founder, Elizabeth R. Raphael, and as a former long-time employee and donor, I believe the work this organization supports – locally, nationally and internationally – is important, rare and precious.”

– Catherine Raphael, Chair, Contemporary Craft Crafting Our Future Committee

“We are thrilled to see how Contemporary Craft’s new home helps them to advance their rich, 48-year legacy of connecting communities through craft.”

– Sarah Schulz, Executive Director, American Craft Council

“Contemporary Craft is one of Pittsburgh’s cultural gems and with this major relocation to Lawrenceville, the organization has the opportunity to shine like never before. The $5.5 million capital project is a major investment in rejuvenating a bit of Pittsburgh’s industrial past while supporting cultural, environmental, and economic vitality with an annual $3.9 million impact on the city’s future.”

– Mitch Swain, CEO, Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council