INSTALLATION VIEW OF THE FIRST ANNUAL EXHIBITION, DEPARTMENT OF FINE ARTS, CARNEGIE INSTITUTE (NOVEMBER 5, 1896–JANUARY 1, 1897), COURTESY OF CARNEGIE MUSEUM OF ART.

This week in Pittsburgh history, a cultural cornerstone of the Steel City was born. 

On Nov. 5, 1896, the first Carnegie International Exhibition was held at the Carnegie Institute in Oakland, what’s now the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh. Both are named in honor of their benefactor — philanthropist and steel tycoon Andrew Carnegie, who aimed, “To make Pittsburgh ‘as famous for art as it is now for steel.’”

INSTALLATION VIEW OF THE FIRST ANNUAL EXHIBITION, DEPARTMENT OF FINE ARTS, CARNEGIE INSTITUTE (NOVEMBER 5, 1896–JANUARY 1, 1897), COURTESY OF CARNEGIE MUSEUM OF ART.

The exhibition of international contemporary art is the longest-running event of its kind in North America. However, the exhibition has undergone multiple transformations since its conception 128 years ago. Throughout its lifespan, the Carnegie International has been known by several other names, including the Pittsburgh International Exhibition, the Pittsburgh International Exhibition of Contemporary Paintings and Sculpture, and the International Series. The Carnegie International’s frequency also evolved midway through the 20th century. Formerly an annual occasion, the exhibition now occurs every three to five years to accommodate the curatory process.

The most recent was the 58th Carnegie International, held from Sept. 24, 2022, through April 2, 2023. The exhibition was curated by Sohrab Mohebbi and featured art from nearly 80 contributors in support of its theme, Is it morning for you yet?, highlighting the different paths of life across the globe. The 59th Carnegie International is set to be held from May 2, 2026, to Jan. 3, 2027.