The current Brew House artist spaces are part of a unique 19th century brewery complex, once home to the Duquesne Brewery, maker of the once famous Duke brand beer, and later by the Detroit-based Stroh’s Brewing company, on the historic South Side of Pittsburgh. In 1972, the brewery finally closed after being inactive for many years, thus ending an era where industry once ran supreme. In the mid 1970s artists began to inhabit spaces in various parts of Brew House, until the mid 1990 when they were able to secure the building for themselves, eventually incorporating as a 501 C-3 non-profit organization. In August of 2001, the Brew House Association formally purchased the Brew House from the City of Pittsburgh.
By pooling their talents, financial resources, and dedication to a common goal, the artist members of The Brew House Association have transformed a former brewery into a stimulating creative environment. These efforts have resulted in the creation of 25 unique studio/living and studio spaces for artists. In 1995, the BHA opened Brew House SPACE 101, an exhibition space devoted to supporting regional artists and events. The IAC Garage, the Brew House’s performance space, was opened in 1997 and has been the venue for some of the region’s most innovative performances. Educational outreach has always been a part of the Association’s activities, in conjunction with specific programming areas and with special events.