Arts Fest To Feature Sculpture That Absorbs City's "Bad Energy," Plus Other New Attractions

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- "Unseen and Unheard." That's the theme of this year's Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival.

A preview Monday morning at the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Building indicated that there'll be a lot to "see" and "hear" when the 10-day festival opens June 5.

A string quartet and future vendors held forth at the Cultural Trust building to hear about public art by four different artists. The information booth downtown, for example, becomes a "Lost and Found Factory."

"Artisans and artists working in the Factory will produce small works of art that visitors can claim with their ticket and take home with them," says Veronica Corpuz, Director of Festival Management.

One of the most interesting entries will be installed at the Fort Pitt Block House: a towering sculpture known as the "Black Rock Energy Absorber." The artist says it will absorb all the "bad energy" in the city into one place.

Rap artist Jasiri X gave visitors a hint of his performance on the Main Stage in Point State Park, while the Hidden Characters Dance Crew put on a demonstration of athletic artistry.

The 56th annual festival will also go high-tech with a program called "Create 2015."

"It's a national art and technology festival with over 40 interactive events and programs," Create Festival Director Kim Chestney. "A convening of some of the nation's most esteemed creative industry leaders and, most importantly, a showcase of nearly 50 of the most innovative tech projects this year."

Above all, vendors hope the Arts Fest can overcome one four letter word: "rain."

Corpuz responds with a smile, "Rain or shine, the power of art can survive."

Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter