Artist: Jennifer Matesa Medium: Watercolor / metallic ink on paper Quotation from The Spirituality of Imperfection by Ernest Kurtz and Katherine Ketcham
Artist: Erin Lawrence Medium: Mixed Media This piece is about opening up to the world of possibilities free from active addiction.
Artist: Jennifer Matesa Medium: Watercolor / metallic ink on paper Quotation from The Spirituality of Imperfection by Ernest Kurtz and Katherine Ketcham
I Killed the Messenger
by Nina Trbovich
Vodka rocks
My body unlocks
A familiar key
I find the groove
I turn the volume down
On myself
I dance the dance
Of someone else
I know the steps
One, two, three
I squeeze into places
I'd rather not be
My soul screams
"This isn't for me!"
I quiet her down
Another round
Victory
Highlights of the 2025 Festival Expansion
Two Gallery Spaces
Atithi Studios and Ketchup City Creative will both feature original works available for exhibition and sale.
Literary Sessions
Live readings of poetry and creative nonfiction submissions, as well as a special reading by Pittsburgh memoirist Brian Broome.
Zero-Proof Cocktails &
Sweet Treats from Local Vend
The opening night reception will feature a full zero-proof botanical bar and delicious treats from Evanly Bakes.
Hands-on
Crafting Stations
As part of our Creative Kaleidoscope series, this year we will be featuring four hands-on crafting stations open to all!
*Pre-registration required.
Live Acoustic Performances
by Sober Musicians
The opening night reception will feature music from local musicians Cody Piper and Julia Norah.
More Volunteer Opportunities
If you're looking for a chance to get involved, this is your chance to join our team and help make the festival a success! Click here to volunteer!
Celebrate creativity in recovery
Challenge addiction-related stigma
Promote connection through sober-friendly community events
Build a visible, inclusive platform for recovery stories
Saturday, September 27
Open Gallery Hours: 12:00-5:00 PM
Featured Event
Hands-On Crafting | Creative Kaleidoscope Sessions
1:00-4:00 PM | John Paul I Center
Four drop-in DIY Stations (pre-registration required)
Sunday, September 28
Open Gallery Hours: 12:00-5:00 PM
Featured Event
Live Readings: Poetry & Creative Nonfiction
1:00 PM | Atithi Studios
Featuring festival submissions and a special reading by Pittsburgh memoirist Brian Broome.
*No registration required
Event Schedule
Daily Open Gallery Hours
Visit anytime during these hours to explore exhibitions at both galleries.
The 2025 Fresh A.I.R. Festival is sponsored by Peerstar
Thank you for your generous support!