Bird on the Run: Check Out This New Public Art

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH

These birds are a little different than the pigeons you may be used to seeing throughout Pittsburgh.

PittsBirds is a public art project designed along Pittsburgh Regional Transit’s new University Line. A series of 20 bird-inspired artwork installations that “create a visual thread” on intersection signal control boxes and other infrastructure throughout the corridor, the artwork “encourages transit riders, pedestrians, cyclists, workers, and residents to seek out the individual birds and experience the corridor in a new way,” according to a statement from the City of Pittsburgh.

“We’re excited to integrate public art along the University Line and can’t wait to see Pittsburghers discover new art on their daily commutes,” says Maria Cadena, public art planner with the City of Pittsburgh Department of City Planning. “Whether you’re biking, walking or riding the bus, we encourage everyone to explore the pieces and find your favorite bird.” 

Marsha Rollinger, a Pittsburgh-area native, was selected as the artist for the University Line public art project for her use of bold colors and layered imagery. For PittsBirds, her work reflects the distinct character and stories of the communities along the University Line. 

“I grew up in the Pittsburgh area and it was exciting to learn so much more about the Downtown, Uptown, Hill District and Oakland neighborhoods from all of the wonderful people who shared stories and gave input for this project through the online survey, in-person meetings and community events,” Rollinger says. “PittsBirds is truly a community-driven art project. I hope the public enjoys seeking out all 20 of the bird artworks and learning the stories they have to tell.”

Community connection is central to PittsBirds. As the project developed, Rollinger gathered stories and ideas from people who live, work, study and travel along the University Line, which connects Downtown, Uptown and Oakland through a new rapid transit service. That input informed the artwork’s themes, designs and locations. The result is a collection of birds that invite people to discover something new along their journey.

Installation of PittsBirds is currently underway, with most installations expected to be completed by the end of this month. Artwork will continue to appear along the University Line corridor through the fall as construction progresses. The University Line is currently in Phase Two of construction and is slated for completion in 2027.