Lee Dittley spent most of his life in the South Side. He grew up in a modest home across the street from St. Michael’s Church. The panoramic view Dittley had of the neighborhood and city inspired him to become one of Pittsburgh’s most acclaimed artists. Dittley captured a city in transition during the last half of the 20th century. He painted and lobbied for the preservation of the South Side’s inclines and his work inspired people to appreciate the South Side’s rich architectural history and distinctive landscapes. This illustrated program explores Dittley’s life and contributions to Pittsburgh art and history.

Speaker David Rotenstein is a South Side resident and a professional writer and historian. He has a PhD from the University of Pennsylvania and is a regular contributor to local newspapers, magazines, and online news sites. He wrote about Lee Dittley in 2023 for NEXTpittsburgh.