Keuka College Dedicates New Center for Art & Design

Among the numerous activities punctuating this year’s Green & Gold Celebration Weekend was one particularly long-awaited event: The formal opening of the College’s new Center for Art & Design.

College trustees Crystal J. Gips ’65 and Martha Fallon Dieter cut the ceremonial green and gold ribbon at a Friday evening reception attended by art students, alumni, faculty members, trustees, and administrators. Support from Crystal, Martha, and Martha’s husband Mark Dieter helped make the new arts space possible.

“I’m beyond grateful to everyone that provided support,” Associate Professor of Art Melissa Newcomb told those assembled. “To those that contributed to the new Center for Art & Design, the list is so long … You all are amazing!”

The center is located on the fourth floor of Hegeman Hall in space formerly occupied by the offices of the president and provost. The arts program was formerly located in Allen Hall, which was closed in January after being damaged by a burst water pipe.

Melissa said the new space – with views of the campus and Keuka Lake – is already proving inspirational to art students.

Interim President Amy Storey capped off the celebratory event with a toast: “To resiliency, creativity, and new chapters. To the legacy of Allen Hall and the many memories – and artists – it produced. And to the students and faculty of the Art & Design program, may the time you spend and the art you create in this new space be inspiring, fulfilling, and uplifting!”