Responding to anticipated enrollment growth in ceramics and sculpture programs, the IUPUI Herron School of Art and Design engaged RATIO to design a new addition connecting the program’s original space to an existing building in use by the campus facilities department.
The addition provides the program a new entry, outdoor and indoor gallery spaces, critique spaces, a computer lab and studio space. The building also features an enclosed central courtyard to accommodate display of art on the east end and fabrication activities on the west end.
The use of simple, utilitarian materials like concrete and crushed stone is intended to withstand the abuse generated by the fabrication processes and to highlight the unique qualities of the art. A massive overhead door allows for gallery access for large-scale artwork via the courtyard.
