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.
