The Art Complex is a 34,000 SF, two-story building. As the new home for art programs, the building provides studio, classroom, office, and support spaces tailored to the needs of fine- and digital-art programs.Â
There are opportunities for social engagement and spontaneous mentorship—spaces that expand and contract to host small-scale study sessions, and are attractors that build a sense of community. These sticky spaces help students expand their academic environment and promote relationship-building that will follow them throughout their professional lives. These spaces are the glue that bind the art complex together. The first floor hosts three-dimensional art, such as sculpture and ceramics, as well as two-dimensional subjects, such as photography and printmaking. The exterior work yard is accessed from the sculpture and ceramic studios, and is physically separated from the courtyard to mitigate noise. This floor is also the main entry to the campus’ art gallery. The second floor contains digital arts, such as production studio and computer labs for the art and digital media program. It also includes two-dimensional art, such as painting and drawing, as well as support spaces like art history classrooms. The second level enjoys an outdoor deck, which provides informal lounge space for students, or a spot for a class to gather and work while enjoying views of Mt. Diablo.Â