PITTSBURGH, PA — The August Wilson African American Cultural Center (AWAACC) has announced the extended run of the powerful exhibition Lavett Ballard: A Rose is a Rose is a Rose, now on view through December 27, 2026.

The exhibition, which is free and open to the public, highlights the work of acclaimed contemporary artist, Lavett Ballard, whose mixed-media practice explores the intersections of feminism, beauty, empowerment, and the historical and contemporary roles of women—particularly Black women.

Through layered imagery, archival references, and vibrant textures, Ballard’s work invites viewers to reflect on identity, resilience, and the narratives that shape the experiences of women across generations.

Visitors also have an extended opportunity to experience one of the Center’s most striking photo installations located on the building’s Grand Staircase.

The site-specific vinyl staircase mural, created by Ballard, debuted as the visual centerpiece of the Center’s Fuel the Future Gala in November 2025 and accompanies the exhibition in the Benter Gallery, also a part of the staircase experience. The large-scale installation transforms the staircase into an immersive work of art, featuring a layered composition that incorporates elements from several of the artist’s works.

The mural blends archival photographs, vivid painted textures, and wood grain motifs that echo architectural elements found both within Ballard’s artistic practice and throughout the August Wilson Center building itself. The installation has quickly become a must-see visual moment for visitors and a unique photo opportunity within the Cultural District.  People from all over the country have posted their pictures on social media highlighting this beautiful mural.

By extending the exhibition through the end of the year, the Center is providing additional opportunities for visitors, residents, and tourists to experience Ballard’s work and the powerful themes it explores.

Guests are encouraged to visit the Center’s galleries and experience the exhibition during regular public hours. For current hours, updates, and additional programming information, visit www.awaacc.org.

ABOUT AUGUST WILSON AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER

The August Wilson African American Cultural Center is a nonprofit cultural organization located in Pittsburgh’s Cultural District that generates artistic, educational, and community initiatives that advance the legacy of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright August Wilson.

One of the largest cultural centers in the country focused exclusively on the African American experience and the celebration of Black culture and the African diaspora, the nonprofit organization welcomes more than 100,000 visitors locally and nationally. Through year-round programming across multiple genres, such as the annual Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival, Black Bottom Film Festival, AWCommunity Days, TRUTHSayers Speaker Series, and rotating art exhibits in its galleries, the Center provides a platform for established and emerging artists of color whose work reflects the universal issues of identity that Wilson tackled, and which still resonate today.

Major support for AWAACC’s operations is provided by the Richard King Mellon Foundation, Henry L. Hillman Foundation, Heinz Endowments, and the Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD). AWAACC’s programming is made possible by generous support from its donors. For a complete list, visit www.awaacc.org.