Passport Academy Students "Caught" Spray Painting in Pittsburgh

Spray paint, self-expression and a whole lot of creativity - Passport Academy Charter School students recently stepped outside the classroom and into Pittsburgh’s vibrant public art scene thanks to a field trip with Rivers of Steel.

For many students, the experience was their first time working with spray paint, and it quickly turned into much more than just learning a new technique.

“This trip was pretty awesome,” said student Asa Garland. “While being totally new to doing graffiti, Mr. Scott taught us a few techniques that made it easy to pick up. I had no idea that Pittsburgh had an area like this filled with so much artwork from spray paint! I look forward to going back again.”

Led by professional teaching artists, Rivers of Steel’s education programs are designed to meet students where they are - blending art, history and hands-on learning in ways that feel exciting and accessible. During the workshop, students learned proper spray-paint techniques, explored the power of public art and were encouraged to reflect on what they wanted their work to say.

"For me, sharing my experience with graffiti and all the opportunities it has brought me, including to Rivers of Steel - it allows me to share a different perspective on art," said Scott Brozovich, graffiti arts coordinator at Rivers of Steel. "I think it's important to show kids there are all sorts of different ways to make a living. Graffiti might not be their thing, but something will be."

For Deahmi Mobley, the experience was eye-opening and calming.

“I thought I actually knew how to spray paint, but this workshop actually taught me how to do it correctly,” Mobley shared. “When I was painting, it was actually very peaceful and allowed me to be reflective in creating something that really meant something to me. I really appreciated this opportunity.”

Beyond learning a new skill, the field trip gave students space to slow down, express themselves and see Pittsburgh through a different lens, ​ one filled with creativity, color and possibility. It also reinforced Passport Academy’s commitment to experiential learning that connects students to their community while building confidence and curiosity.

"Working with the students from Passport Academy was really inspiring," said Brozovich. "There's a whole big world out there to explore. There are so many opportunities out there for these kids and I appreciate playing one small part in showing them that."

Thanks to partners like Rivers of Steel, Passport Academy students aren’t just learning about art. They’re living it.

About Rivers of Steel:

Rivers of Steel is a collection of four experiential museums and national historic landmarks that celebrate the global impact of Pittsburgh’s steel industry. We honor a legacy of grit and determination that shaped the modern world.

At the heart of our collection are the Carrie Blast Furnaces, telling historically significant stories—from steel magnate Andrew Carnegie to the hundreds of thousands of immigrants who formed one of the world’s most diverse industrial workforces. Rivers of Steel is a steward of this legacy through guided history tours, student education, metal, graffiti, and heritage arts programs, entertainment spaces, and festivals—all designed to create dramatic, eye-opening experiences.

Our work keeps the cultural spirit and craft of molten metal alive while community outreach, workforce development programs, and tourism help build a more sustainable economic future for the Mon Valley, the birthplace of industrialized steel.