OUR HISTORY

The North Hills Art Center was founded in 1959 by Emily Karlen and Joan Milsom. There were only 20 members and meetings were held in the Karlen’s Glenshaw home. Known as the Artists’ and Craftsmen’s Guild, it became incorporated in 1961 as a nonprofit to provide arts education and enrichment in the North Hills. As the Guild grew, it moved to spaces in Shaler High School, local churches and the Northway Mall. Their annual art show was held at the North Park Skating Rink. 

Over the years, NHAC has been fortunate to have the volunteer and community support to grow the founders’ vision and become the creative haven enjoyed today. Early on, Beaux Arts Balls were held with elaborate themes such as “A Night on the Nile” and “Vikingland,” to raise money for a home of our own. They were first held in 1963 at the Wildwood Golf Club on Sample Road and then the Royal Ridge Field Club in Franklin Park. Hite’s Drug Store, on Mt. Royal Boulevard, displayed art pieces in their store window that would then be auctioned off at these events. Additionally, the Pittsburgh Foundation helped with a grant. A building, formerly owned by the White Heating Co., was purchased in early 1968. On May 16, 1969 the North Hills Art Center on Babcock Boulevard opened to the public with over 350 members.

Fast forward to today, the Art Center continues to be a vibrant community asset with over 1,000 members. In addition to classes and workshops, regular gallery shows offer wonderful opportunities to view local art, meet the artists and enjoy live music and refreshments. The North Hills School District holds annual student art shows in our gallery every January. Local animal rescue groups benefit from our animal themed shows, which are also held annually. Outreach programs include kid’s backpacks filled with art supplies which are donated to local food banks and monthly volunteer visits to local nursing homes to paint with their residents.

The North Hills Art Center emphasizes the “Healing Power of Art” and found this to be particularly relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic. The programming and community relationships continually grow and evolve. It is truly a haven for the arts in the North Hills.