Pedantic Arts transitions to a standalone Non-Profit organization and seeks inaugural Executive Director

Photo credit: Cameron Brown

Pittsburgh, PA: After five years of operating under the co-direction of Casey Droege Cultural Productions and Headwater Media, Pedantic Arts (Pedantic) is transitioning to non-profit status and becoming an independent arts organization. With core values of connection, community, interdisciplinary study, and exploration, Pedantic will move forward with its mission of interconnecting creative thinkers working under different disciplines to promote inspiration through cross-disciplinary and intellectual conversation.

When asked about the transition, Pedantic co-founder Henry J. Simonds said, “I am thrilled that we have been able to formalize this collaboration, as it is a project that has real traction in the creative community. People find meaning in the spaces in which we gather and want to be involved. Becoming a 501(c)(3) enables us to build the infrastructure to consistently provide these services while allowing us to explore new ways to further bolster the local and global arts communities.”

Pedantic Arts’ core programming includes two annual residencies, each hosting an artist, a curator, and a writer in the Pedantic Arts apartment, located in Pittsburgh’s Garfield neighborhood. Unlike traditional artist residencies, Pedantic does not require a final deliverable, prioritizing immersion over production. This unique residency program aims to open greater and more cross-disciplinary dialogue within the arts where each singular, definitive role becomes part of a collective, exploratory experience. 

The organization is pleased to gather an inaugural Board of Directors who have been pivotal to the organization’s transition. Henry J. Simonds, co-founder of Pedantic and founder/director of Headwater Media, will continue his involvement as President of the Board. He is joined by Brett Ashley Crawford, Faculty Chair of the Master of Arts & Entertainment Management programs at Carnegie Mellon University; Kris Rockwell, President of the Kris Rockwell Foundation; and Matthew Newton, an independent writer and editor.

To drive this change, Pedantic Arts seeks a visionary Executive Director to lead the organization as they become established as a premier destination for arts residency and research in Pittsburgh. The Executive Director will lead all aspects of organizational leadership, including strategic planning, financial management, governance, fundraising, program development, and community engagement. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of an innovative arts organization. Click here for more details and a full job description.

Operating since Summer 2021, Pedantic Arts will continue to bring visual artists, curators, and writers together for a month of immersive, cross-disciplinary connection. Pedantic will also continue its derivative program The Grant, where selected grantees are offered access to the Pedantic apartment building for up to two weeks to conduct Pittsburgh-specific research.

Pedantic Arts sought and received non-profit status in Summer 2026. To support Pedantic’s new chapter, visit our “Donate” page.

CDCP is thrilled for Pedantic Arts and the organization’s bright future.

The Art Supply Co. is hiring Art Handlers

Position Title: Art Handler

Job Type: Contractor

Hours: As needed

Location: In-Person at various locations

Pay Range:

Commercial Day Rates

• Half Day: $200.00 

• Full Day: $400.00

• Additional hourly: $50.00 

Nonprofit Rates

• Half Day: $140.00 

• Full Day: $280.00

• Additional hourly: $35.00

Casey Droege Cultural Productions (CDCP) is an artist-run, woman and disability-owned business founded in 2016. With a two pronged approach, CDCP works towards promoting the growth of the arts economy. Our community focused arm, operating under the CDCP brand, offers meaningful art programs, exhibits, and platforms for artists to interact with the public. Our commercial arm, The Art Supply Co., offers consulting services that connect clients with living, local artists to help create dynamic, art-forward spaces. Working with us contributes to the development of a vibrant creative community where artists and arts workers get paid.

The Art Supply Co. is seeking experienced Art Handlers who are available on a project-by-project basis. Art Handlers will work closely with our Lead Art Handler to ensure the safe installation of valuable 2D and 3D artworks for corporate and private clientele. General tasks include installation, de-installation, packing and un-packing, and movement and storage of objects.

Art Handlers must supply their own basic tools for installation. If specialty tools or supplies are needed, TASC will provide. Art handlers will be reimbursed for any supplies they purchase, if approved in advance by the Director or Lead Art Handler. 

Physical Requirements:

• Must have the ability to climb and work on ladders for extended periods of time

• Ability to reach work with hands above shoulder level

• Ability to move and lift up to 50 lbs 

• Ability to stand or walk for an eight-hour work day

Knowledge and Skills Required: 

• Dedication to and alignment with CDCP’s values

• Experience with installation of 2D, 3D, and digital/time-based media artwork in a variety of settings

• Experience with packing and storing valuable works and ensuring safe and secure transportation and storage

• Bring your own tool kit, appropriate to cover basic art installation needs

• Basic woodworking skills and knowledge of hand and power tools

• Demonstrated accuracy and strong attention to detail

• Operates equipment and tools in a safe and proper manner; makes minor repairs as directed; promptly informs supervisor regarding damaged equipment or the need to replace or service equipment

• Works professionally and cooperatively with all installation personnel and other employees, contractors, artists, and couriers

• Shares responsibility for maintaining safe, clean, and orderly work areas

• Ability to creatively problem solve and adapt to client feedback

• Hard-working, responsible, punctual, flexible to last-minute changes, disciplined, able to take direction and learn new skills 

• Self-motivated and able to work independently

• Strong customer service skills and commitment to preserving and building positive and respectful relationships with clients, artists, vendors, venues, etc.

• Open to work some occasional evening and weekend hours

Preferred but not required:

• Current drivers license

• Able and willing to drive a box truck

• Reliable transportation to install locations throughout Pittsburgh and up to 100 miles out of the city

• Understanding of best practices in different settings, including museums, galleries, private residences, etc.

To apply, please email Nick Sardo, our Lead Art Handler, at nick@caseydroege.com with your resume, a brief description of your art handling experience, your current availability, and two references.

CDCP is seeking an exhibition attendant!

Exhibition Attendant Position 

Casey Droege Cultural Productions (CDCP) 
Wilkinsburg Community Development Corporation (WCDC) 

Location: Lohr Gallery, 729 Wood Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15221 
Hours: Temporary (November 2024–June 2025), Part time (12–5pm Saturdays) 
Starting Rate: $15/hr 

CDCP is an artist-run/woman-owned business dedicated to building the Pittsburgh arts community by offering accessible, quality art experiences that connect the local and the global, encourage the growth of a local arts economy, and build a diverse arts audience. 

The Art All Over program is a collaboration between WCDC and CDCP to transform the WCDC headquarters in the newly renovated Lohr Building into a gallery-level display space. Launched in 2020, the initiative will celebrate and promote the many accomplished artists who live in the Wilkinsburg area. 

Position Description: 

CDCP is seeking an attendant to help oversee gallery space and welcome visitors to special exhibitions. The position has a specific schedule of Saturday shifts from 12 – 5pm, beginning November 2024 through June 2025 (except for scheduled holiday closures). We are looking for candidates who will help to create a warm and inclusive art space. Some contemporary art knowledge is appreciated along with an interest and involvement with community engagement. Additionally, excellent people and communication skills are necessary, as well as the ability to work independently. 

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:  

• Greet customers when they walk through the door and ask if they need assistance  

• Supervise artwork in the space and maintain a clean and safe environment 

• Support events and programming in the space 

• Learn basic biographical information about the artists and their work; actively engage with visitors to answer questions and provide additional information about CDCP, WCDC, or the work in the space 

• Day to day administrative tasks as assigned  

• Operate the Square Point-of-Sale app for any artwork sales 

• Stay attuned to visitor experience and create a welcoming environment 

Knowledge and Skills Required:  

• Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills. You will interact with both the public and artists on a regular basis and should feel very comfortable talking with people 

• Hard-working, responsible, punctual, flexible to last-minute changes, disciplined and self-motivated, able to take direction and learn new skills 

• Able to work independently 

• Demonstrated accuracy and strong attention to detail 

• Ability to move and lift artworks up to 40 lbs 

• Experience with Square Point-of-Sale is a plus 

Position is open until filled. To apply, please send the following to CDCP Finance and Operations Director Candace Opper at candace@caseydroege.com

• Letter of interest 

• Resume 

We're hiring! CDCP is seeking an Operations Assistant

Casey Droege Cultural Productions (CDCP)
Position Title: Operations Assistant

Job Type: Contracted Worker
Duration: TBD
Hours: 15-20 hours/week
Location: Remote/Virtual and in person
Starting Rate: $18–$22/hour

About CDCP and TASC Consulting:

Casey Droege Cultural Productions (CDCP) is an artist-run, woman- and disability-owned business created in 2017. CDCP is an experiment in sustaining a for-profit, socially-minded arts business while building an arts economy in a city with a small arts ecosystem. Through our work, we provide unique art solutions that have an immediate impact.

The Art Supply Co. (CDCP’s consulting business) works with businesses and developers to facilitate artwork acquisitions and commissions, with a focus on regional artists and designers. By choosing to work with TASC, our clients support a thriving creative community and encourage a sustainable economy for artists in Pittsburgh and the surrounding area.

Projects include buying and commissioning artworks for corporate, hospitality, and educational sites, among others. We also organize events that include artists in activities, talks, or commissions. Other projects focus on artist management for specific client-run installations.

CDCP aims to build authentic and long-term relationships with artists, clients, and communities through our values of compassion and respect. We promote a safe and inclusive work environment supportive of underrepresented voices. CDCP honors the individual perspectives and experiences of its staff and is ultimately grounded by a shared value of teamwork.

Position Description:

The Operations Assistant is responsible for supporting Project Managers and the Project Assistant in the logistics and realization of projects and events. OAs are tasked with research, communication and outreach, as well as the development of project materials and documents. OAs also work with the Connection Coordinator to execute and manage the posting of all social media content. For any CDCP-organized exhibitions, OAs may be asked to help with overseeing the gallery during open hours. Excellent communication/interpersonal skills and knowledge of CDCP’s vision and mission are essential. OAs report directly to the Director and Assistant Director and will be assigned to support a few specific projects as well as handle other tasks as needed. The position offers training for a Project Manager or Operations Manager position.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Project & Event Support

• Streamlining and maintaining project spreadsheet

• Creating document templates in Google Drive

• Working alongside the Finance Manager to generate reports for project reimbursement and ensure payment to artists/vendors/etc.

• General research to support Project Managers and project/event development

• Assisting with making suggestions on new project management tools

• Assisting with outreach to project-related contacts (i.e. clients, artists, vendors, etc.) via email and phone

• Presence at select on-site meetings and location visits

• Stepping in to assist on projects/events as needed

• Other administrative tasks as needed

• Social Media

• Work alongside the Connection Coordinator, who is responsible for planning and drafting all social media content; have regular meetings to keep on track (biweekly or monthly)

• Manage social media calendar, with distinct dates and times of each posting

• Responsible for posting all social media content on platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) for both CDCP and TASC accounts

• Respond to all social media messages, comments, repost on stories, etc.

• Create social media graphics and have the ability to change them if needed

• Create a weekly presentation to share social media plans with the team at All Staff meeting

• Create event announcements on online listings as needed

• Update taplinks to reflect current events and happenings

• Only as needed (or interested), write blog posts, create interviews, and do outreach for post collaboration from community and team members

• Gallery Support (if/when needed)

• Learning/communicating basic biographical information about artists featured in the gallery

• Operate/update Square point-of-sale system

• Create a welcoming/inclusive environment for guests of the exhibit

• Stay attuned to visitor experience and answer any questions to the best of your ability

• Follow all opening and closing procedures

Knowledge and Skills Required:

• Dedication to and alignment with CDCP’s values

• Participation in maintaining a safe space work environment that supports a team mentality

• Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills; comfort talking with people with a wide range of art knowledge and interests

• Ability to creatively problem solve and adapt to feedback

• Commitment to preserving and building positive and respectful relationships with clients, artists, vendors, venues, etc.

• Hard-working, responsible, punctual, flexible to last-minute changes, disciplined, able to take direction and learn new skills

• Confident in taking the lead on administrative organization and following up with Project Managers and fellow staff for updates and organizational improvements as needed

• Self-motivated and able to work independently

• Demonstrated accuracy and strong attention to detail

• Experience and comfort with working as part of a small team and delegating tasks

• Ability to get around the city to various meetings (car not required)

• Awareness of Pittsburgh-based and/or regional artists and arts organizations is preferred

• Experience with Google Workspace programs and proficiency with Adobe suite is preferred; experience with presentation platforms like Sketch Up, Miro, and Jam Board is preferred

• Experience with social media content creation and/or management is preferred; comfort with using social media platforms is required.

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references via email to Hannah Turpin, CDCP Assistant Director at hannah@caseydroege.com.

Applications received by 11:59 PM on Friday, June 23, 2023 will be given priority. However, the application will remain open until the position is filled.

Meet the Interns: Anastasia Goldina

For this round of Meet the Interns, we’re highlighting Anastasia! Anastasia has been interning with CDCP since early this summer, and is still with us, helping out in all parts of the organization! We interviewed her recently to get to know her better, and so you can know her too!

1) Can you tell me a little about yourself (what you do, where you're from, how long you've been in Pittsburgh)?

It’s been almost two years since I immigrated to Pittsburgh from Moscow with my family. I graduated ABD from Moscow Lomonosov University with a major in art history and then started assisting my husband with running a fine art and antiques business for about 10 years.

2) Since I haven't worked with you too much, what kind of work do you do for your internship at cdcp?

I started as a PPF volunteer this year. Currently I'm working with Casey on a grant project meant to help emerging local artists find new distribution channels and become economically sustainable. My intern responsibilities include collecting data and exploring the market.

3) What made you come to Pittsburgh?

Our relatives live here, that's why it was our first choice. Initially, we were going to spend a year here and then move to a larger city. Eventually, we liked Pgh so much that decided to stay here.

4) What are you favorite things to do in town?

Visiting museums and galleries. Going to the ballet, opera and symphony performances. Walking to the parks and playgrounds with my daughter. Strolling around nice neighborhoods like Squirrel Hill, Shadyside, Point Breeze.

5) Do you have any favorite artists in pittsburgh or at small mall?

I appreciate the works of Vanessa German and Thaddeus Mosley. Being closer to the local art scene and its backstage is one of the greatest perks of the internship. I was fascinated by the sculptural thread drawings by Nicole Czapinski I saw at Small Mall.

6) Do you do any art yourself? If so, what do you do?

Hardly I have ever been able to make anything really beautiful with my own hands. That's why I admire persons with that particular mindset who create Things out of nothing.

Interested in interning for CDCP? We’re always looking for interns to help us with the nitty gritty tasks. Shoot an email to Eriko at eriko@caseydroege.com to learn more about being a part of our team!

Small Mall is HIRING!

CDCP is seeking an Attendant for Small Mall and Small Mall Outpost! The position is 5 hours a week with Sundays and some evening hours required with a starting rate of $10/hr. You will be working between our two locations in Upper Lawrenceville and Wilkinsburg.

We are looking for candidates who will help create a warm and welcoming art space and store. Some contemporary art knowledge is appreciated along with an interest and involvement with community engagement. Additionally, excellent time management and communication skills are necessary, and the ability to work independently.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following: 

• Supporting events and programming in the space.

• Learn basic biographical information about the artists and their work.

• Day to day administrative tasks as assigned

• Operate the cash register and provide accurate change to cash-paying customers

• Show customers the locations of items they are looking for and suggest complementary items when appropriate

• Greet customers when they walk through the door and ask if they need assistance

• Staying attuned to visitor experience and creating a welcoming environment; actively engaging with visitors to answer questions and provide additional information about CDCP or the work in the space.

• Pay attention to shoppers on the floor and notify management of any possible shoplifting activity

• Restock shelves when needed to ensure optimum availability of products

• Ensure the space is ready to receive visitors, with basic cleanup and organization.

Knowledge and Skills Required: 

• Strong interpersonal skills. You will interact with both the public and artists on a regular basis, and should feel very comfortable talking with people.

• Hard-working, responsible, punctual, flexible to last-minute changes, disciplined and self-motivated, able to take direction and learn new skills.

• Demonstrated accuracy and strong attention to detail.

• Ability to move and lift artworks up to 40 lbs.

• Excellent verbal communication skills

• Extremely self-motivated and responsible

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite

To apply:

Please submit a one-page letter of interest and resume with the subject line "Small Mall Position" via email to candace@caseydroege.com. The application deadline is August 5th, 2019. No phone calls. No late submissions.