Located in an Old Post Office, Sweetwater Center for the Arts Is Something to Write Home About

PHOTO BY KRISTY GRAVER

The future of Sweetwater Center for the Arts starts in the 116-year-old building it has occupied since 1988.

The community group that saved the Old Sewickley Post Office four decades ago is transferring ownership to the longtime tenant. In the ‘80s, Old Sewickley Post Office Corporation (OSPOC) raised $1.5 million to purchase the Broad Street structure from the federal government and renovate it for adaptive reuse.

Since then, it’s been a creative hub, hosting classes, art exhibitions and performances for Pittsburghers of all ages, abilities and skill levels. As a nod to its past, the building also houses the Sewickley Valley Historical Society.

The old post office is now a love letter to local art, history and culture.

PHOTO BY KRISTY GRAVER

During an open house on April 19, Sweetwater unveiled new branding by Revive Marketing Group, which aligns with the new ownership and its strategic plan. The logo incorporates many of the shapes found throughout the Neo-Baroque-style building, plus the colors and font were designed with neurodivergent patrons in mind.

Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2012, the landmark includes a ceramics studio, metalsmithing shop, teaching kitchen, children’s space, community room and exhibition areas.

Between 400 and 500 classes are offered annually.

In 2025, Sweetwater transformed a 2017 Ford MicroBird into a mobile art gallery and marketplace. Saige Baxter, director of community engagement and education, drives SweetRide to public events and private parties throughout Pittsburgh, ensuring accessible art experiences to all and providing a place for local makers to sell their work.

PHOTO BY KRISTY GRAVER

The nonprofit is also gearing up for its popular seasonal events, including Sweetwater Blooms Market on May 16, June 20, July 18, Aust. 15 and Sept. 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Bank Street in Sewickley. The free-to-attend event is held rain or shine and features locally grown flowers, handcrafted artwork, garden-related items and food vendors.

Sweet Jazz, Sweetwater’s music series that takes place at Walnut Green in front of the Lindsay Theater & Cultural Center, kicks off June 5 with Check Your Bucket. Bleil Brothers Band performs on June 12, Dr. Emmett Goods Quartet on July 10 and Grace Elliott on July 17.

PHOTO BY KRISTY GRAVER

The organization has streamlined its online registration process and expanded offerings for adult classes and its 10-week summer camp, whichincludes everything from Digital Photography and Clay Fundamentals to Cake Decorating and Graphic Arts 101.

Sweetwater will host another RAD-sponsored, interactive open house on Aug. 29, giving folks a glimpse into its future and its past.