Moka on Soho started as a shared vision by partners Charlotte Ka and Errol Mobutu Reynolds. They both lived through part of the Hill District’s rich history and deeply missed and longed for the diverse culture of art and music that was once so vital to the Hill. Because of their extensive experience in art and music, they decided to create a space for another cultural rebirth.

They purchased a building from the City of Pittsburgh and selected the name Moka on Soho (Mecca of Kulture and Art).

Moka features a gallery beautifully designed by architect Chuck Culbertson, created to showcase art, music, and films. Using building materials from Construction Junction, ReStore, Braddock Redistribution Center, Demo Depot, and demolition sites, Moka on Soho was a cost-effective endeavor of love.

As a cultural ark, Moka is proud to be the first of the second wave of Hill District art galleries, providing a central space to celebrate and share the rich African American cultural legacy rooted in the area.