APSU is expecting the construction of a new fine arts building in fall 2015.
According to Marc Brunner, director of Facilities Planning and Projects, the decision to build a new fine arts building stemmed from consensus by students, faculty and staff who claimed Trahern was no longer able to meet the needs of the campus.
Senior theatre performance major Christian Jasper said it looks like Trahern is falling apart from the outside. He said he likes that there will be a new building.
The new building will be used to provide space for the programs remaining in Trahern and provide new space and amenities in the new building.
Built by the construction management company Turner Construction, the building will feature new studio spaces for 2-D art classes, a student and department gallery for displaying artwork, a recital space with seating for around 75, a graphic design computer studio, ample pin-up/critique spaces, a photo lab, faculty offices, student/faculty consult spaces, break-out meeting spaces and open-seating study areas.
“The building is designed with the intent of maximizing faculty and student interaction,” Brunner said. “Anyone walking through the spaces will see a lot of activity and collaboration between students and faculty. The goal has been to create spaces that will bring the learning out of the classroom and into the public spaces for the whole campus community to see. It will be a very dynamic place.”
Construction is expected to last for about one year, with Trahern being in renovation for six months.
The construction budget is $16 million, and APSU is waiting for approval from the governor’s and legislature’s approval of the state budget to begin next fall.
Senior Marcus Erand said it is about time for a new fine arts building and that the space is 20 years overdue.
Although he will have graduated by the time construction is finished, Erand said he will come back to campus to see the new building.
“I think we need a new fine arts building,” said sophomore art major Danielle Marvel. “This one is fine, but I like to see what else they can do with it. I’d like a new one.”
