Environmental Design, Transportation Design and Media Design Matters Join Renowned Graduate Programs in Art, Broadcast Cinema, Industrial Design and Media Design Projects

As part of its annual showcase, 4 Hours Solid: Work & Ideas from the Graduate School at Art Center College of Design, the College will officially debut representative projects and emerging themes driving its new graduate programs in Environmental Design, Transportation Design and new MFA track in Media Design Matters. The new curricula will join existing graduate programs in Art, Broadcast Cinema and Media Design Projects to offer four intriguing hours of exhibitions, film screenings, discussions and presentations.

In making the announcement, Art Center Provost Fred Fehlau said, “4 Hours Solid gives Art Center a chance to showcase what really makes our Graduate programs unique. It’s not just about the study of a given discipline, but the desire to advance those disciplines through the invention of new formats, processes and forms. Our new offerings build on the school’s core competencies to further position the College’s graduate school firmly in the center of the discourse surrounding the future of art and design.”

This event is free and open to the public. Taking place on Wednesday, April 18, 2012 from 6:00—10:00 p.m., 4 Hours Solid will offer an array of programming throughout the evening. Visit the 4 Hours Solid website for a complete schedule and more information as the date approaches. In addition to the array of activities surrounding Art Center’s graduate programs, a no-host bar will be open and a number of Los Angeles’ ubiquitous mobile food trucks will be staged outside the building.

“Art Center’s Graduate programs are wildly different in areas of study, method of instruction and curriculum—and our new offerings add yet another layer of diversity,” said Anne Burdick, Chair of Graduate Media Design. “At the same time, the friction between our programs creates a highly energized dialogue around higher education, art, design, business and the world around us. 4 Hours Solid is one way we encourage members of the global art and design community to join the conversation.”

Art Center’s new programs were launched in response to the College’s strategic plan, Create Change, which lays the groundwork for Art Center not only to retain its competitive edge, but also to become the foremost art and design college of the 21st century.

The event, coincides with Experience Art Center at Night, an open house featuring information about many of the non-degree, continuing studies classes Art Center offers the public.

Further information about Art Center’s Graduate programs can be found online:

• Graduate Art: http://www.artcenter.edu/gradart/
• Graduate Broadcast Cinema: http://www.artcenter.edu/gradcinema
• Graduate Environmental Design: http://www.artcenter.edu/gradenvl
• Graduate Industrial Design: http://www.artcenter.edu/gradid
• Graduate Media Design: http://www.artcenter.edu/mdp/
• Graduate Transportation Design: http://www.artcenter.edu/gradtrans

About Art Center’s South Campus
A dynamic venue, South Campus is an historic 100,000-square-foot former supersonic wind tunnel located in downtown Pasadena. The building was redesigned by Daly Genik architects in 2004 and is among the first in Pasadena to be LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified. This award-winning structure houses Art Center’s Graduate Art and Media Design programs as well as Public Programs, serving the greater Los Angeles area with open enrollment classes in art and design. Additional highlights of South Campus include Archetype Press, the largest letterpress printing facility of its kind; a printmaking studio; Design-Based Learning Lab; the Judy Slasky Memorial Rooftop Garden with Texlon® skylights; and The Agency, a select group of Art Center students who develop advertising campaigns for real-world clients. The campus is conveniently located next to the Metro Gold Line (Filmore Station), connecting Greater Los Angeles to Pasadena and the San Gabriel Valley.

More Than 60 Organizations Utilize “Family PLZ!” Campaign To Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening Rates During National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

A mixed media campaign to promote colorectal cancer screening, spearheaded by Art Center College of Design, The American Cancer Society and the Mayo Clinic Center for Innovation, has been adopted by more than 60 organizations affiliated with the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable and launched in conjunction with National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, it was formally announced today by Mariana Amatullo, Vice President of Designmatters at Art Center.

"Art Center is pleased to develop this national effort to increase colorectal cancer awareness and promote the importance of family history and screening. It’s a testament to the work of our superb faculty and talented students and our emphasis in rigorous design research methodologies and close collaboration with scientific experts that this campaign has been so well received by the American Cancer Society and its partners," said Ms. Amatullo.

Art Center Provost, Fred Fehlau, added, "Family PLZ!, a collaboration between our Designmatters and Graphic Design Departments, specifically promotes the work of our students in the realm of interaction design. The project is an example of Art Center's commitment to expanding the role of design in culture and our lead in developing new practices as technologies become available and ubiquitous. The success of this campaign, the recent Interaction Design Award received by our students, and other significant recognition underscores the value of the new Interaction Design program we’re launching in the Fall." 

Initially launched in Fall 2011, with renewed support during National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month that is being observed throughout March 2012, the Family PLZ! campaign uses contemporary media channels and social networks to promote family history as a key factor in the need for colorectal cancer screening. The campaign targets people ages 18 to 45 with a message about understanding family health history, and focuses on the goal of increasing screening adherence.  The campaign encourages young people to start talking to family members about their family history of colorectal cancer or polyp and spurs young people to take the action step of "searching and sharing their family's health history," while reiterating the message that colorectal cancer screening should begin at 50 for those without a family history. For more information about the campaign, visit familyplz.org. 

Family PLZ! was designed by Graphic Design, Advertising and Graduate Media Design students in a transdisciplinary studio class led by faculty members Dirk-Mario Boltz, Jason Brush and Allison Goodman. Students and faculty worked with the Mayo Clinic Center for Innovation and the American Cancer Society with communication research support by scientists from the University of Southern California School for Communication and Journalism, under the guidance of Art Center’s distinctive social impact department, Designmatters, and the College’s Graphic Design department. 

About Designmatters at Art Center
As an educational department and Concentration at Art Center, Designmatters partners with every discipline to focus on art and design education with a social impact agenda and "real-world" outcomes. The work is implemented through a series of unique partnerships and alliances with global development agencies, government groups, academic institutions, local and national non-profits and leading industry. Through Designmatters, students are invited to apply their talent, creativity and toolbox of skills to address some of the most critical humanitarian and social challenges of our time with empathy, discipline, and unwavering optimism to effect change.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its professional rigor, ties to industry and social impact initiatives, Art Center is the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status. Both DesignIntelligence and U.S. News & World Report consistently rank Art Center’s industrial design programs as #1 and BusinessWeek regularly features Art Center among the world’s top design schools. U.S. News also ranks Art Center’s art and media design programs in the top twenty Grad Schools. Throughout the College's 80-year history, Art Center’s alumni—a network of more than 18,000 artists and designers—have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society.

Acquisition Made Possible By Alumni Giving in Support of Future Generations of Art and Design Students

Art Center College of Design will expand its educational reach and resources with the acquisition of a former U.S. Postal Service property in Pasadena, Art Center President Dr. Lorne M. Buchman announced today. The purchase of the vacant property was made possible through gifts from alumni. President Buchman further announced that the College has selected award-winning firm Michael Maltzan Architecture as its partner in fulfilling and expanding its academic plan through the re-imagining of existing spaces, and the forward-looking design of new ones, at both of the College’s campuses.

Dr. Buchman said, “This is a pivotal moment not only in Art Center’s history, but in art and design education, given the growing impact of the creative professions on the economy and on our world. This new property enables expansion and development of our programs and infrastructure and enhances our capacity for teaching, learning, creating and collaborating to ensure that we are able to fulfill our mission to educate students, now and into the future.

“The overwhelming support of alumni for this acquisition signals their commitment to future generations of Art Center students. They want these students to have access to the same opportunities they had— opportunities afforded by rigorous, professional instruction in a supportive, creative, cutting-edge environment,” Dr. Buchman continued.

Art Center Board of Trustees Chair Robert C. Davidson, Jr., added, “The availability of the property adjacent to the College’s South Campus was serendipitous, and it came on the market just as we finalized our strategic plan. The Board and I are exceedingly proud to be part of setting the vision for Art Center and its leadership at this time of transformation. Thanks to thoughtful planning and the generosity of our alumni, the College now renews its commitment to providing the finest education for our students. Further, we are poised to expand to meet future challenges and even higher standards of excellence.”

George Falardeau, Sr. Vice President of Real Estate and Operations for Art Center, stated that the new property is at 870-888 S. Raymond Avenue in Pasadena, immediately adjacent to the College’s existing South Campus at 950 S. Raymond. The acquisition will allow the College to create three centers of learning—an expanded South Campus, a renovated Hillside Campus (1700 Lida Street, Pasadena) and a virtual campus—each optimized for the particular needs of promising artists and designers, while at the same time fostering new collaborations among disciplines. This expansion also includes opportunities to strengthen engagement with and connection to diverse communities because of the proximity of South Campus to public transportation and the continued presence of Art Center’s Public Programs at that location.

Commenting on the selection of Michael Maltzan Architecture for the project, Dr. Buchman said, “Following an intensive, year-long process, Michael emerged as the best partner for Art Center as voiced by our students, faculty and alumni, especially given his deep understanding of the way artists and designers learn, think and make. We couldn’t be more enthusiastic to have him on board to fulfill our vision for tomorrow’s classrooms and studio spaces.”

Michael Maltzan added, “Art Center’s continued leadership in art and design education comes from the culture of innovation and inspiration that thrives there. An important part of that legacy is the innovative and useful architecture that the school has built over the years to help foster and sustain that culture. It is enormously exciting to be able to participate with Art Center in developing buildings and spaces that will continue to capture the spirit of the school, provide for changing and emerging programs and help imagine its future.”

Art Center alumni responded to the possible expansion in an unprecedented manner, donating $5 million for the acquisition of the new property. Significant gifts include three, seven-figure irrevocable bequests, one made by Art Center alumnus and award-winning environmental designer Richard Law (Graduate Industrial Design ’58). Another gift was from Art Center alumnus and kinetic sculptor Steven Rieman (Product Design ‘74) and his wife, Ruth, and a third was from Art Center alumnus Bruce Heavin (Illustration ’93) and his wife, former Art Center faculty member Lynda Weinman, owners of the innovative online learning company, lynda.com.

“This is exactly what Art Center should be doing,” Mr. Law said. “The property, in an urban environment on the edge of Old Pasadena where all the action is, as well as public transit, is a great example of renewing older areas, creating a vital, energetic place. In today’s culture, this is exactly how a campus should be.”

“We aren’t as interested in a new building as we are in the education inside that building, and in recognizing the excellence of Art Center students and the critical importance and impact of what they do,” the Riemans said of their bequest. “The type of work that could happen there, such as full-scale prototyping, is just one way students would benefit. It’s clear to us that Art Center is serious about broadening students’ opportunities and experience by embracing new technologies and new ways of collaborating and creating in new spaces.”

Mr. Heavin said, “When I first visited the property, I immediately saw a great natural extension of the South Campus that would accommodate students’ educational needs.”

Ms. Weinman added, “As a former faculty member, it has been great to reconnect with Art Center’s high standard of excellence and quality and to commit to upholding it through thoughtful expansion.”

The College’s expansion plans are in direct response to Create Change, a five-year strategic plan that reflects the collective vision of the entire Art Center community in shaping the College’s core values into a new model for art and design education in the 21st century. The plan identifies Art Center’s “conservatory” approach to education, wherein students undergo intense and practical career preparation guided by expert faculty, and the role that rich intercultural and transdisciplinary collaborations play in providing students a contextual understanding of the world around them. The plan identifies the need to enhance and improve its physical spaces and educational technologies in order to foster and extend such collaboration.

About Michael Maltzan Architecture
Michael Maltzan Architecture is an architecture and urban design practice committed to the creation of progressive, transformative experiences that chart new trajectories for architecture, urbanism, and the public realm. Led by Michael Maltzan, FAIA, the practice is dedicated to the design and construction of projects which engage their context and community through a concentrated exploration of movement and perception. Through a shared belief in the role architecture can play in the contemporary city, this work has created new connections and catalyzed change across a range of scales, programs, and contexts from MoMA Queens to Skid Row.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry and professional rigor, Art Center is also the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, providing students with opportunities to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and nonprofit agencies around the world. During the College's 80-year history, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society. For current news and events about the College, visit Art Center’s blog, Dotted Line.

Principals to discuss program at Design, Social Innovation, and Graduate Design Education Panel sponsored by AIGA’s Design for Good initiative
being held at U.S. Fund for UNICEF in New York on October 19, 2011

October 13, 2011, Pasadena, CA ….. Art Center College of Design has launched the Media Design Matters Track (“MDM”), an innovative curriculum housed in the Graduate Media Design program, it was announced today by Anne Burdick, chair, Graduate Media Design, and Mariana Amatullo, vice president of Designmatters, the College’s social impact educational initiative. The program commenced in September 2011.

The new MDM curriculum builds upon the successful integration of design and social/humanitarian engagement found in Art Center’s Designmatters initiative, coupled with the emphasis on communication technologies, an interdisciplinary approach, and design research in the Graduate Media Design Program.

Ms. Burdick and Ms. Amatullo will discuss Art Center’s pioneering work over the past 10 years in communication design for social impact, and how it led to establishing the new MDM program at the upcoming Design, Social Innovation, and Graduate Design Education Panel being presented at the U.S. Fund for UNICEF offices in New York on October 19, 2011.

In making the announcement, Ms. Burdick stated, “In Grad Media Design we are dedicated to developing new models of design practice. The Media Design Matters track allows students to learn about issues of social relevance by working hands-on with the design of communication in constrained real-world circumstances: with a team, on the ground, with direct community involvement, and typically with limited resources, whether political, financial or otherwise. It is built upon our core belief that design is many things—from a way of understanding the world to a method for creating the raw material of everyday life.”

The team of core faculty for the program will be comprised of experts in the fields of design research, computing and civic media, and anthropology and social justice. The core faculty includes Sean Donahue (principal of Research, an L.A.-based design practice, and former Director of Research for Humanities & Design Sciences at Art Center College of Design), who will be joined by new faculty Chris Csiksentmihalyi (cofounder and director MIT’s Center for Future Civic Media [C4] and the Computing Culture Group at the MIT Media Lab), and Elizabeth Chin (award-winning anthropologist and author). (Please see below for additional biographical information on the principals.)

Ms. Amatullo noted, “For ten years the Designmatters platform has enabled us to push the boundaries for social impact design education with numerous partners across sectors and disciplines. With the Media Design Matters Track, we are stepping up our engagement and commitment to unleash human potential through design. I anticipate deeply consequential outcomes.”

“A key component of the program, and the core of the student experience, is an immersive project conceived around one large systemic issue that will be sustained over the course of one year and include field research in partnership with an international development agency, NGO, national non-profit or local community partnership,” Amatullo continued. “Art Center is pleased to have the U.S. Fund for UNICEF as its initial partner, and to be working with the UNICEF Innovation Team and their new Innovation Lab in Kampala, Uganda.”

"UNICEF Uganda is excited to be working with Art Center's Media Design Matters program. We believe that bringing the private sector, academia and development together with those in need can help us design systems and solutions for some of the world's most pressing challenges," stated Dr. Sharad Sapra, the UNICEF Representative in Uganda. "Collaboration with end-users in Uganda around product and system technology design transforms the development process. Co-creation of sustainable last-mile and equity-focused solutions ensures that poor and unreached populations participate as the solution finders rather than simply as problems to be solved."

The MDM will launch in September 2011 (Fall term) with the first cohort of students participating in a “design immersion” curriculum for two terms. A second cohort will join the program in May 2012 (Summer term) and together they will continue for four consecutive terms. The student/faculty team is scheduled to arrive on-site in Uganda at and work with UNICEF’s Innovation team in country in Fall 2012. (For compete information about the program see http://artcenter.edu/mdp/matters/index.html.)

Burdick added, “Our aim is to create a robust model of practice that is applicable across a variety of situations and problems. Our graduates will have first-hand experience communicating across cultures, developing empathy, working inventively with the resources at hand, and understanding the power of communication technologies—from oral storytelling to mobile infrastructure—in politics, culture, and people’s everyday lives. These are critical skills for any designer working in the 21st century.”

“Design matters. It always has, and always will. But the nature of how design matters, to whom and to what end, constantly evolves. The new MDM track is an example of how we are finding innovative ways to ensure that all of our programs maintain a leading edge within their fields and connect to collective social needs,” concluded Fred Fehlau (provost, Art Center College of Design).

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For information, images and interviews
CONTACT:
Christine Hanson
CRH Communication Management
Christine@christinehanson.us
+1-323-578-4834


Biographical information on principals

Mariana Amatullo (vice president, Designmatters, Art Center College of Design) founded the college-wide initiative Designmatters at Art Center College of Design, based in Pasadena, California in 2001 with a task force of faculty, chairs, staff and students. In her capacity as the lead of the program, and at the helm of the Designmatters Concentration in art and design for social impact, she develops strategic educational partnerships and oversees a portfolio of research collaborations, communication campaigns, exhibitions and publications that enhance Art Center’s commitment to be at the forefront of international design education and contribute solutions to humanitarian issues of critical urgency. Through her leadership, Art Center is the first design institution to be formally affiliated with the Department of Public Information at the United Nations as a non-governmental organization (NGO); and a civil society organization member with the Organization of American States (OAS/OEA). The award-winning and tangible outcomes of the student projects that are developed under the mantle of Designmatters have established the program as an exemplary effort within the landscape of social impact design–uniting educational objectives with highly effective advocacy and action-oriented outcomes.

Amatullo serves on a variety of advisory boards and networks engaged in the arts, design education and social activism, including IDEO.org, Design 21 (in partnership with UNESCO), Tassmeem Journal, and Intelligent Mobility International (IMI); she is a founding member of the University of Southern California International Museum Institute. Amatullo is an active essayist and lecturer internationally about design education in the humanitarian sphere.

Prior to joining Art Center in 2000, Amatullo pursued a variety of research and curatorial projects and held positions at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (1992-1996) and The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (1991). Amatullo is a Nonprofit Research Fellow at the Doctor of Management Program, Weatherhead School of Management, Case Western Reserve University, and holds an M.A. in Art History and Museum Studies from the University of Southern California (1994) and a Licence en Lettres Degree from the Sorbonne University, Paris (1990). Her undergraduate studies included two years at l’Ecole du Louvre, Paris. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Amatullo was brought up internationally through the Argentine diplomatic corps,

Anne Burdick (chair, Graduate Media Design, Art Center College of Design) is a regular participant in the international dialogue regarding the future of graduate education and research in design. Her influential essays, “Graduate Education: Preparing Designers for Jobs that Don’t Exist (Yet),” and “Design without Designers” identify the challenges of design education and theory in the 21st century. Her research is centered on new modes of scholarly production in the Digital Humanities. She designs experimental text projects in diverse media, for which she has garnered recognition, from the prestigious Leipzig Award for book design to I.D. Magazine’s Interactive Design Review for her work with interactive texts. Burdick has designed books of literary/media criticism by authors such as Marshall McLuhan and N. Katherine Hayles and she is currently developing electronic corpora with the Austrian Academy of Sciences. Burdick’s writing and design can be found in the Los Angeles Times, Eye Magazine and Electronic Book Review, among others, and her work is held in the permanent collections of both SFMOMA and MoMA. Burdick studied graphic design at both Art Center College of Design and San Diego State University prior to receiving a B.F.A. and M.F.A. in graphic design at California Institute of the Arts.

Elizabeth Chin has a BFA from NYU where she double majored in Drama and Anthropology. She received her PhD in Anthropology from the City University of New York. Her research has covered a wide range of areas including children and childhood; consumption; autoethnography; and dance.

Her book Purchasing Power: Black Kids and American Consumer Culture (Minnesota 2001) was a finalist for the C. Wright Mills Prize, and in 2007 she was awarded the American Anthropological Association prize for excellence in undergraduate teaching. An incurable multi-tasker, she is at work currently on several projects, including an analysis of child-produced Barbie sex videos on YouTube; a collaborative reassessment of the work of African American dance innovator Katherine Dunham; and an autoethnographic account of her consumer life. She was recently elected to the board of directors of the Congress of Research on Dance. Chin has contributed commentary to the Tavis Smiley show on NPR and is active in community work in Los Angeles through partnerships with youth-oriented nonprofit organizations.

Chris Csikszentmihalyi cofounded and directed the MIT Center for Future Civic Media (C4), dedicated to developing technologies that strengthen communities. While there he oversaw projects like Sourcemap, betweenthebars, extrACT, Cronicas de Heroes, and other public-spirited and activist projects. He also founded and directed the MIT Media Lab's Computing Culture group, which worked to create unique media technologies for cultural and political applications. Trained as an artist, he has worked in the intersection of new technologies, media, and the arts for 16 years, lecturing, showing new media work, and presenting installations on five continents and one subcontinent. He toured museums and nightclubs with his mechanical hip hop device, DJ I, Robot, which was nominated for the Best Artistic Software award at Berlin's Transmediale, while a previous piece, Natural Language Processor, was commissioned by the KIASMA Museum in Helsinki, Finland. The catalog for his large-scale installations, Skin and Control, is published by Charta and distributed by DAP. In the fall of 2011 he will be the Distinguished Visiting Professor of Design Research at Parsons New School for Design. He was a 2005 Rockefeller New Media Fellow, and a 2007-2008 fellow at Harvard's Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, and has also taught at the University of California at San Diego, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and at Turku University.

Sean Donahue is principal of Research, a Los Angeles-based design practice. Before joining the Media Design Program as a core faculty member in the Media Design Matters track, he was Director of Research for Humanities & Design Sciences. Outside the classroom, Sean’s work consists of professional commissions, self-initiated research, design advocacy, education and publishing. Sean's projects range from media impact studies for city development to hybrid languages for low and no-vision communities. Sean has lectured and published internationally on the practice of media design, design research and social practice. He has lectured and held workshops at Harvard, Cal Arts, IDEO, The Royal College of Art and North Carolina State University where he was also the 2004 Designer-in-Residence. Sean’s recent work has been included in the 2010 Cooper Hewitt Design Triennial “Why Design Now?” The 2011 California Design Biennial “Action/Reaction.” The 2011 AIGA Design Educators Conference "New Practices/New Contexts." Metropolis Books ““Design as Advocacy”, as well as The Journal of Biomedical Informatics and most recently acquired for inclusion in the Smithsonian's Permanent collection.

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About the Graduate Media Design Program
Art Center’s graduate program in Media Design offers a two- or three-year Master of Fine Arts curriculum that helps ambitious designers from a variety of backgrounds become design leaders and researchers in emerging fields. Graduate Media Design prepares designers for a world in which virtually anything—from a new material to a global network—may be the next medium or platform of communication.

About Designmatters at Art Center
As an educational department and Concentration at Art Center, Designmatters partners with every discipline to focus on art and design education with a social impact agenda and "real-world" outcomes. The work is implemented through a series of unique partnerships and alliances with global development agencies, government groups, academic institutions, local and national non-profits, and leading industry. Through Designmatters, students are invited to apply their talent, creativity and tool-box of skills to address some of the most troubling humanitarian and social challenges of our time with empathy, discipline, and unwavering optimism to effect change. #

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry and professional rigor, Art Center is also the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, providing students with opportunities to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and nonprofit agencies around the world. During the College's 80-year history, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society. For current news and events about the College, visit Art Center’s blog, Dotted Line.

About UNICEF
UNICEF has saved more children's lives than any other humanitarian organization in the world. Working in more than 150 countries, UNICEF provides children with health care, clean water, nutrition, education, emergency relief, and more. The U.S. Fund for UNICEF supports UNICEF's work through fundraising, advocacy, and education in the United States.

UNICEF is at the forefront of efforts to reduce child mortality worldwide. There has been substantial progress: the annual number of under-five deaths dropped from 13 million in 1990 to 8.1 million in 2009. But still, 22,000 children die each day from preventable causes. Our mission is to do whatever it takes to make that number zero by giving children the essentials for a safe and healthy childhood. For more information, visit www.unicefusa.org.

A convergence of circumstances, including energy security, climate change and air quality concerns, have led to a rapid push toward sustainable transportation. Experts from across North America will present solutions and ideas related to sustainable transportation at the first-ever Forward Motion: Advancing Mobility in California & Québec symposium organized by Art Center College of Design, the Québec Delegation in Los Angeles and the Université de Montréal.

Earlier this year, the Quebec government unveiled its 2011—2020 Action Plan for Electric Vehicles, intended to transform Québec into a North American leader in the field of sustainable mobility. Similarly, in 2009 California became the first state in America to mandate carbon-based reductions in transportation fuels in an attempt to cut the state's overall greenhouse gas emissions by 2020.

In support of these larger sustainable mobility goals, Forward Motion will feature experts in the fields of electric vehicles and public transit as selected by the three partnering organizations. The experts will discuss the experimental programs, groundbreaking initiatives, new technologies and advanced materials developed in California and Quebec that are rapidly driving North America forward.

In advance of the half-day symposium, taking place on September 21, 2011 at Art Center’s Hillside Campus in Pasadena, attendees have the option of attending a special keynote luncheon during which award-winning transportation designer Jean Labbé, founder of Labbé Designers & Associates—and a graduate of both Art Center College of Design and Université de Montréal—will address "How Design Is Shaping Public Transportation."

In addition to Mr. Labbé, panelists include:
 

• Sylvain Castonguay, General Director of Québec’s Centre National du Transport Avancé (CNTA)
• Renaud Cloutier, Vice President of Business Development at TM4
• Edward Kjaer, Director of Southern California Edison’s Plug-In Electric Vehicle Readiness program
• Catherine Morency, Chair of Mobility and Associate Professor, Department of Civil Engineering and Mining at Montreal’s ÉcolePolytechnique
• Simon Pastucha, Principal Designer at the City of Los Angeles Urban Design Studio
• Pierre Rondeau, Director of Product Design, Advanced Concepts and Design Services at Bombardier Recreational Products
• Chelsea Sexton, Consulting Producer, Revenge of the Electric Car, and Senior Advisor to VantagePoint Capital Partners’ CleanTech portfolio

 
“Our collaboration with the Quebec Delegation and the Université de Montréal comes at an exciting time for Art Center,” said Geoff Wardle, Director of Advanced Mobility Research at Art Center College of Design. “We are developing a new program in Graduate Transportation Design, which will expand the College’s already significant impact on the automotive industry and the broader field of transportation design. As symbolized by the Forward Motion symposium, the curriculum will be heavily influenced by our relationships with outside partners from a diverse community of industry, government, urban planners, manufacturers, think tanks and other educational institutions.”
 
Philippe Lalande, Chair, School of Design of Université de Montréal, said, “We are pleased that our friends at Quebec Delegation partnered us with Art Center College of Design to create a green transportation design symposium. In Quebec, our School is the main source of talent and expertise in design, providing extensive knowledge to the transport industry. There are many similarities between our two educational institutions and we look forward to many more successful collaborations.”
 
“In our efforts to highlight Quebec’s own expertise in design and sustainability as part of Quebec in Hollywood, there was no better choice than Art Center,” Charles Gauthier, Director of Economic Affairs for the Quebec Delegation in Los Angeles, added. “Art Center College of Design is an amazing, vibrant place and their students and faculty have shown a deep understanding of the future of transportation design. It’s exactly this type of partnership that underscores both the commitment and creativity that are common to both California and Québec for accelerating real world solutions for clean transportation.”
 
The cost of attending the keynote luncheon, half-day symposium and networking reception is $55.00. Tickets for the half-day symposium and networking reception (without the luncheon) are $35.00. To register to attend Forward Motion, and for additional information about the program and speakers, please visit http://www.artcenter.edu/forwardmotion.
 
The symposium is part of Québec in Hollywood, a three-week celebration of Québec's unique brand of creativity and flair in the arts, circus, cuisine, comedy, design, fashion, film and music. All performances and events will take place in and around Hollywood in a variety of exciting venues. For more info on the Quebec in Hollywood festival, visit http://www.quebecinhollywood.com.
 
About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry and rigorous curriculum, Art Center is also the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status.
 
About Quebec Delegation in Los Angeles
Since 1970, the Quebec Delegation in Los Angeles has worked to foster the long tradition of creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship that Québec and California share. In our respective corners of North America, Quebecers and Californians have laid the cornerstones for extremely successful design, entertainment, high-tech and transportation industries. From cinema to aerospace, fashion to IT, cleantech to life sciences, our companies, universities and institutions have long reached out to one other for partnerships, R&D collaborations and shared prosperity.
 
About Université de Montréal
Université de Montréal enjoys an enviable position as a leading research institution both in North America and Canada. The university's role as a hub between these spheres enables it to develop unique and dynamic research networks driven by world-renowned scientists, drawing collaboration with the world's most innovative organizations. At an international level, it is consistently placed within the top 150 institutions in major world research rankings.

Teens, Artists, Educators, Youth Advocates and Community Members are Invited to Attend the Unveiling of Large-Scale, Interactive Installations at Art Center College of Design on Thursday, August 18 at 4:00 p.m.

Art Center College of Design, Armory Center for the Arts, Flintridge Center, Learning Works! Charter School and more than two dozen other community-based organizations have collaborated to develop the installation and creative programming of a "Teen Art Park" that fosters safe, artistic expression for at-risk youth in Pasadena.

Large scale, interactive installations designed under the guidance of Art Center’s Designmatters and Environmental Design Departments will be unveiled at a fun, open house-style, community event on Thursday, August 18 at 4:00 p.m. Educators, youth advocates, artists, community members and especially teens are encouraged to attend the event, which—in addition to the unveiling of the Teen Art Park structures—boasts graffiti battles, a live DJ, pizza, art projects and more.

Beyond a safe-haven for at-risk youth to practice their craft, creative programming developed as part of the Teen Art Park seeks to provide workshops in a variety of visual, applied and performing arts; develop skills that easily transfer into the classroom and the workplace; deepen connections with community resources; and serve as a public space for performances and exhibits. Detailed information about the Teen Art Park collaboration, installation concepts and creative programming can be found on the Designmatters website.

Designmatters Vice President Mariana Amatullo said, "Teen Art Park has been a deeply transformative project for all of us at Art Center—an opportunity to engage with our partners, Flintridge Center, the Armory and Learning Works! in a bold vision that sets forth new creative spaces for learning and community."

"I cannot thank Art Center enough for envisioning what teens might want when searching for safe places to hang out, be with friends and express themselves as individuals," said Mikala Rahn, Executive Director of Learning Works! Charter School. "With community involvement and support, Teen Art Park would transform Pasadena into a better, youth-friendly city."

Scott Ward, Executive Director of the Armory Center of the Arts, said, "Teen Art Park is capable of transforming the lives of local teens by presenting them with safe, creative outlets and programs that explore new career and educational opportunities. It’s a win-win for all participants, the City of Pasadena and—most importantly—our at-risk youth."

The Teen Art Park unveiling will take place at Art Center’s Hillside Campus, located at 1700 Lida Street in Pasadena, California. Complimentary valet parking and refreshments will be provided. To RSVP, please email Elisa Ruffino, Director of Designmatters, at elisa.ruffino@artcenter.edu.

Art Center College of Design proudly announces the successful completion of its "80 for 80" scholarship initiative with more than $3 million raised to support students in the College’s undergraduate, graduate and public programs. At the conclusion of the 18-month long "80 for 80" initiative, the College raised a total of $3,121,730 for annual and endowed scholarships, exceeding its $2 million goal by 56%.

On the occasion of its 80th anniversary in 2010, the College launched the “80 for 80” fundraising initiative to secure the equivalent of 80 $25,000 scholarships. By its completion, the initiative had raised the equivalent of 124 $25,000 scholarships. The College’s commitment to ensure access to students through scholarships and other forms of financial aid continues to be a priority and is outlined in Create Change: Art Center’s Strategic Plan (2011-2016).

"I am delighted with the level of support generated by the '80 for 80' initiative," said Art Center President Dr. Lorne M. Buchman. "We launched 80 for 80 in direct response to the pressing financial needs of our students and we are grateful to the broader Art Center community for helping us exceed our goals. It’s an important step as we strive to make Art Center accessible and affordable to talented artists and designers regardless of their socio-economic background."

Phil Hettema ILLU '81, Art Center alumnus and founder of The Hettema Group, an award-winning theme park and museum design firm, said, "These are difficult economic times for everyone and Art Center students are not exempt, but I have a sense that the College is responding to these challenges in a forthright way. The energy and sense of vision at Art Center feels stronger than ever and the strategic plan exemplifies this. There's a real investment and passion in the students with a focus on dynamic learning and initiatives that are meaningful in today’s world.

"Creating a scholarship assures me that my contribution is going to make a direct impact on students for many years to come," Mr. Hettema continued. "It’s an opportunity to give back to Art Center, with the hope that the recipients of my scholarship will do the same when their turn comes."

Tony Award® nominee and Art Center alumna Valerie Gordon-Johnson FILM '78 said, "As a producer in both film and theater, whenever I have found myself faced with a challenge, I could trust the skills I learned at Art Center and concentrate on the work at hand. Through our scholarship, my husband and I want to nourish the next generation of Film students and give them the same sense of confidence."

Of her husband, fellow theatrical producer and graphic artist Doug Johnson, Mrs. Gordon-Johnson added, "As someone who received scholarships when he attended school, Doug understands the significance they hold. He believes anyone who has ever been the beneficiary of an educational scholarship should, upon their achieving some success, do what they can to return the favor."

An important part of Art Center’s "80 for 80" fundraising efforts was a lively anniversary gala, Art Center at 80: Celebrating the Creative Spirit, the proceeds of which supported scholarships for undergraduate, graduate and public program students. More than 250 guests were on hand to honor four extraordinary alumni—industrial designer Yves Béhar, automotive designer Frank Stephenson, blockbuster filmmaker Zack Snyder and artist Pae White. In accepting their Creative Spirit awards, the alumni underscored the difference Art Center made in their creative paths and the importance of ensuring that the next generation of students have the same opportunities.  

Wayne Herron, Senior Director of Development, said, "The success of '80 for 80' is a direct result of Lorne’s leadership. Upon Lorne's arrival he immediately prioritized the needs of our students and launched '80 for 80' at his inauguration to generate scholarship support. The positive response we’ve received from the Art Center community—especially so many alumni—is a sign of trust in the College’s direction and belief in its strong future.

"It’s our hope that this sense of trust and belief carries over into support of Art Center’s strategic plan, the entirety of which is built on the desire to give our students the skills and resources they need to realize their dreams and for Art Center to secure its position as a great art and design college of the 21st century."

All money raised for scholarships from January 2010—June 2011 was counted toward the final total. For more information about ways to donate to Art Center, visit artcenter.edu/giving or call 626.396.4216.

“Formula E Race” Emceed by Television Personality Matt Gallant with Expert Panel of Judges on Thursday, August 11, 2011

Community Members Invited to Watch “Formula E Race” and Award Their Favorites

In preparation for this year’s annual Formula E Race at Art Center College of Design, Graduate Industrial Design students partnered with industrial design students from Pasadena City College (PCC) to not only design and build Formula E racecars, but to raise money for six local non-profits.

The efforts of the students’ work will be realized on Thursday, August 11 at 4:00 p.m. when the Formula E Race takes place at Art Center’s Hillside Campus. More than a race, the event showcases design ingenuity, with students applying the theory E=mh into a functioning, rubber band-powered racecar that transforms potential energy into kinetic energy.

Engaging television personality Matt Gallant will emcee Art Center’s Formula E Race. Most recently, Gallant hosted ABC’s primetime reality show American Inventor. Additional television hosting gigs include The Planet’s Funniest Animals, Like We Care and Hangin’ with MTV.

This year, in support of the College’s continuing efforts to strengthen its ties to the community, Grad ID faculty member and Art Center alumnus Stan Kong reached out to a number of students at Pasadena City College, where he also teaches, to connect them with Art Center students. Ultimately, eight PCC students and 14 Grad ID students formed seven different teams to tackle the Formula E challenge.

Andy Ogden, Chair of Art Center’s Graduate Industrial Design Department, said, “In Grad ID we place high value on the aspect of team building. Building Teams with PCC has been a great experience for everyone. A mentoring relationship has developed organically between Grad ID students and their peers at PCC, and in some teams the PCC students have taken leading roles. The students are from a diverse set of backgrounds and have brought new energy and dimensions to the whole project.”

Art Center’s Grad ID program seeks to prepare students for leadership roles throughout creative organizations, oftentimes fueling their entrepreneurial ambitions. As part of this effort, each team—in addition to designing a Formula E racecar—was tasked with identifying a local non-profit, for which they would use the race as a fundraising opportunity.  

“The Formula E race is an opportune project to have students work with local non-profits as an extension of their team efforts, and the students have been developing creative ways to engage with and benefit their charities,” said Mr. Kong. “As a result, the students become better citizens of the city while contributing to enrich the cultural experiences of the Pasadena community.”

The non-profits include:

• The Rowe and Gayle Giesen Trust, which encourages the personal and emotional development of disadvantaged Pasadena children and youth through an experience in the visual arts.
• Kidspace Children’s Museum, which provides creative environments that inspire learning through self-directed, interactive experiences and play in the arts, sciences and humanities to enrich children, families and the community.
• KPCC Southern California Public Radio, which seeks to strengthen the civic and cultural bonds that unite Southern California's diverse communities by providing the highest quality news and information service through radio and other interactive media.
• Levitt Pavilion Pasadena, a top-quality professional venue, which encourages community spirit and promotes respect for diversity by providing free public access to the performing arts.
• SideStreet Projects, a completely mobile, artist-run nonprofit organization that gives artists of all ages the ability and the means to support their creative endeavors.
• The Visual Arts and Design Academy at Pasadena High School, which offers specialized curriculum and relevant hands-on instruction to engage students and encourage them to pursue a career in the arts.

In addition to Mr. Ogden and Mr. Kong, Art Center faculty members Mark Anderson and Todd Jones taught the team of Art Center and PCC students.

At the Formula E event, a panel of judges comprised of faculty, corporate partners and industry leaders will issue awards to first place finishers in three different heats: the hill climb, drag race and road course. Additionally, awards will be announced for the team whose car is the most sustainable and race attendees will be invited to submit ballots for the car with the best overall styling and aesthetics.

The expert panel of judges includes:

• Daniel Ashcraft, Principle, Ashcraft Design
• Doug Boyd, President, Boyd Communications
• John Caldwell, Principle, John Caldwell Design
• Chris Chapman, Design Director, BMW Group Designworks USA
• Del Coates, Retired Design Professional/Educator
• Joe Futtner, Interim Dean, Visual Arts & Media Studies Division, Pasadena City College
• Karen Hofmann, Chair, Product Design, Art Center College of Design
• Richard Holbrook, Principle, Richard Holbrook Design
• Alex Kritselis, Former Dean, Visual Arts & Media Studies Division, Pasadena City College
• Dave Muyres, Vice President, Hunt Green LLC
• Dave O’Connell, Principle, Dave O’Connell Creative
• Fraser Paterson, Design Director, Wheels Group, Spin Master Toys
• Martin Sanders, Concept Manager, LEGO Concept Lab
• Alex Shen, Studio Design Manager, Calty Design Research, Toyota
• Orrin Shively, Director of Art and Design, Disney Online
• Randall Smock, Senior Designer, Honda R&D

For more information about the event, please call 626.396.2464.

About Graduate Industrial Design
Grad ID at Art Center focuses on theory and practice for the production of insightful research and the development of human-centered and business model-based designs. Combining Art Center’s renowned excellence in visual design and skilled craftsmanship with the knowledge, theories and methods essential for making design solutions for complex and unstructured problems, the program seeks to prepare students for leadership roles throughout creative organizations. In 2010, Art Center’s Grad ID program was ranked nationally as the number one graduate industrial design program both in U.S. News & World Report and in DesignIntelligence. In five of the last six years, it has been ranked number one in DesignIntelligence’s “America’s Best Architecture & Design Schools” issue.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry and professional rigor, Art Center is also the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, providing students with opportunities to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and nonprofit agencies around the world. During the College's 80-year history, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society. For current news and events about the College, visit Art Center’s blog, Dotted Line.

Today one of Art Center College of Design’s most influential leaders, Don Kubly, passed away. Don’s active involvement with the school spanned 47 years, from 1938 as a student, through his retirement as President in 1985. Don was a dear friend of the school and colleague to many. He was 93 years old.  
 
After receiving a degree in Advertising from Art Center in 1949, Mr. Kubly worked at N.W. Ayer & Son in Philadelphia, one of the country’s leading advertising agencies. As a senior art director for more than 16 years, Mr. Kubly won numerous gold medals and other top awards for his creative work.  
 
He returned to Art Center as Assistant to the Director in 1963 to teach and manage day-to-day operations of the school under the guidance of Edward A. “Tink” Adams, the school’s principle founder. In 1969, he became President of the College and served until his retirement in 1985.
 
Among his many accomplishments as Art Center President, Mr. Kubly oversaw significant enrollment growth, from approximately 700 students to more than 1,200 full-time students. Additionally, he spearheaded the College’s move in 1976 from the Hancock Park neighborhood of Los Angeles to its present Hillside Campus location in Pasadena. For the Hillside Campus, Mr. Kubly retained the architectural firm of Craig Ellwood Associates to design a building that reflected Art Center’s educational philosophy. The result was a steel and glass structure that produced a minimum impact on the hills of Linda Vista. The building is now a historic landmark in the City of Pasadena.
 
In a 1999 commencement address, Mr. Kubly remarked about the College, “I have a great sense of having accomplished something worthwhile in helping this institution come to be one of the most respected institutions of its kind in the world…But most of all, I take great pride in the quality of the young people that graduate from Art Center.”
 
Don and his wife Sally, also an alumna of Art Center, have been long-time residents of Pasadena.
 
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the Kubly Family Scholarship at Art Center College of Design. Individuals interested in making donations to the Scholarship can visit the College website or contact Wayne Herron, Senior Director of Development, at 626.396.2437 or wayne.herron@artcenter.edu.
 
A public celebration of Mr. Kubly’s life will be held at Art Center in the coming weeks. General inquiries can be made to the Office of Public Relations at 626.396.2338 or proffice@artcenter.edu.

Award-winning graphic and logotype designer, cherished mentor and revered faculty member Doyald Young, who passed away earlier this year, will be honored by his alma mater, Art Center College of Design, with The Doyald Young Memorial Scholarship, it was revealed today by Art Center President Dr. Lorne M. Buchman.

The scholarship, which will be available to incoming and current Graphic Design students, will be formally announced at "Young Love," a celebration of Young’s life and legacy taking place at the College this weekend. With enough support, the College intends to endow the scholarship to benefit its students in perpetuity.

"Shortly before his passing, Doyald said, 'if you have the gift of teaching, you must pass it on,'" Dr. Buchman recalled. "In establishing the Doyald Young Memorial Scholarship it is our hope that we honor the generosity and strength of a gifted artist and powerful teacher—and encourage others in that same spirit of giving to ensure his legacy in the next generation."

Young taught lettering and logotype design in the Graphic Design Department at Art Center College of Design for decades. His freelance work included logotypes for hotels, clubs, universities, financial institutions, arts, entertainment and practically every other industry. He created several corporate and commercial fonts and published three books about his work: Logotypes & Letterforms, Fonts & Logos and Dangerous Curves.

Young was named Inaugural Master of the School by Art Center College of Design in 2001, named a Fellow of the Los Angeles chapter of AIGA in 2006, received an AIGA Medal in 2009 and received an honorary doctorate degree of humane letters from Art Center in 2010. His life story and immeasurable talent was also documented by lynda.com as part of their "Creative Inspirations" series in 2010.

Young received his formal education at Frank Wiggins Trade School and Art Center College of Design.

Individuals interested in making donations to the Scholarship can visit the College website or contact Senior Development Officer Palencia Turner at 626.396.2366 or palencia.turner@artcenter.edu.

Art Center’s Graphic Design students learn to infuse words and images with life and meaning. They begin with an accelerated education in the formal principles of design, aesthetics and craftsmanship, after which students can specialize in a single area of graphic design or continue to explore the full scope of communication design. Students are challenged to develop design solutions while experimenting with a wide range of media including product packaging, book and magazine layouts, interactive communication, 3D graphics, virtual environments and the creation of graphic identities and branded experiences.

About Art Center College of Design

Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry and professional rigor, Art Center is also the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, providing students with opportunities to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and nonprofit agencies around the world. During the College's 80-year history, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society. For current news and events about the College, visit Art Center’s blog, Dotted Line.

Proficient concept artist, designer and educator Tim Flattery has been appointed Chair of the Entertainment Design Department at Art Center College of Design, it was announced today by College Provost Fred Fehlau.

 

In making the announcement, Mr. Fehlau said, "Entertainment Design is usually understood to be how films come to look the way they do. But the field today is much greater, encompassing any project in which storytelling is important—themed environments, exhibitions, gaming, and learning institutions such as museums and libraries—all rely on creating visual narratives. As we create more opportunities for interdisciplinary practice, these storytelling skills are increasingly important to the College at large. With Tim’s breadth of experience, we feel he is the perfect person to bring our Entertainment Design program into the future."

 

"I’ve worked in the entertainment industry for 24 years and have been fortunate enough to have realized my dreams," Mr. Flattery said. "As Chair of the Entertainment Design program at Art Center I hope my passion and expertise will influence the next generation of talented designers so that they, in turn, can realize their dreams."

 

Mr. Flattery is a multi-talented creative concept artist and designer with expertise in concept development, design and fabrication. In a career spanning more than two decades, he has worked on some of the biggest films for some of the most famous directors in the world. Among the number of highly anticipated projects he has worked on are Green Lantern, Real Steel, Creature from the Black Lagoon and Mission: Impossible IV. Previously, he has overseen the full-size construction of custom vehicles, which he designed for films such as the Fantasticar for Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, the Batmobile for Batman Forever, and the Amphibicopter and other vehicles for A.I. Artificial Intelligence. Additionally, he has raised the creative bar with acclaimed design work on award-winning and blockbuster films, including Terminator Salvation, The Incredible Hulk, Transformers, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest, Spider-Man II, Saving Private Ryan, Men in Black and many, many others.

 

Beyond his career as a concept artist and illustrator in the film industry, Mr. Flattery has done creative work for Walt Disney Imagineering and Chimera Design in the area of theme parks and resorts. He has also done independent work for Entertainment Arts and the EA Games Label.

 

This announcement represents a homecoming of sorts for Mr. Flattery, who taught visual communication at Art Center to industrial design students in the early '90s. He received a Teacher of the Year award from the College in 1994.

 

Mr. Flattery graduated from College for Creative Studies with a bachelor’s degree in Transportation Design.

 

Mr. Flattery joins Art Center following an extensive international search conducted by a committee of faculty, alumni, students and staff from both the Entertainment Design and Illustration departments.

 

Ross LaManna, Chair of the undergraduate Film program at Art Center and head of the search committee, said, "Tim has contributed to the success of many of the biggest blockbusters in recent history with creative work that is breathtaking and inventive. He enjoys a stellar reputation in the industry and we're thrilled he's bringing his talent and enthusiasm to Art Center."

 

About Entertainment Design
Located in Southern California just minutes from Hollywood and major motion picture studios, Art Center College of Design is a prime location for students aspiring to a career in the entertainment industry with classes often taught by talented and qualified instructors from nearby companies such as DreamWorks, Walt Disney Studios, Sony Pictures Imageworks, EA Games and Activision Blizzard.

 

While Entertainment Design is Art Center’s newest program (it formerly began accepting students in Fall 2007), graduates from our industrial design and illustration departments have been leaders in the field for decades, including production designer Kathy Altieri (How to Train Your Dragon, Over the Hedge, The Prince of Egypt), vehicle designer Harald Belker (Battleship, TRON: Legacy, Iron Man and Iron Man 2, Minority Report), concept designer Ryan Church (Avatar, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, Star Wars Episode II and III), background painter William Cone (Up, Ratatouille, Cars), concept artist James Clyne (Cowboys & Aliens, Avatar, Star Trek), concept artist Mark Goerner (Battle Angel, X2: X-Men United, Minority Report), production designer Sean Hargreaves (Toy Story 2, The Lost World: Jurassic Park, Batman Forever,), storyboard artist Simon Ko (The Incredible Hulk), visual effects supervisor Kevin Mack (Percy Jackson & the Olympians, Big Fish, What Dreams May Come), legendary concept designer Syd Mead (Mission Impossible III, Blade Runner, Tron), lead conceptual artist Nick Pugh (The Chronicles of Narnia, Superman Returns, The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift,), creature designer Neville Page (Green Lantern, Sucker Punch, TRON: Legacy, Avatar), concept artist Raj Rihal (The Avengers, Men in Black III, Thor, Red Alert 3, Guitar Hero 3), modeling artist Gary Schultz (WALL-E, Ratatouille, Cars), creative visual director Farzad Varahramyan (High Moon, Darkwatch, Jumanji, Alien vs. Predator) and concept artist Victoria Ying (Tangled, Frog Princess).

 

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry and preparing students for professional practice, Art Center is the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, providing opportunities for students to create design based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College's 80-year history, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society.

 

Art Center College of Design plans to celebrate the new year with a continuation of its inquiry into the theme of "made up" worlds. The result will be a public exhibition and lecture series, curated and designed by Media Design Program faculty member Tim Durfee, scheduled to begin in January.

"In a world where the media creates pervasive, multiple realities and where the fast pace of economic, environmental, and technological developments increasingly orient us toward an inherently unknowable future—a generation of designers and architects are turning to fiction for answers and inspiration," said Tim Durfee, curator, designer and director of the MADE UP project. "The MADE UP exhibition is intended to serve as a window into the uses of fiction by contemporary practitioners of design."

"The inspiration for MADE UP originated in work created in our program that pointed toward emerging trends in art, architecture, and design worldwide," added Anne Burdick, chair of the Graduate Media Design Program. "Through a research residency, an eclectic exhibition, panel discussions, readings, screenings, and a publication, MADE UP considers the relevance of speculation, role-playing, idealism, skepticism, and simple lying as instruments or objects of design process."
 
About the MADE UP Exhibition
"We are imagining worlds for technologies not yet available, in a present splintered by multiple realities, inspired by futures promised but unfulfilled" said Durfee.

The exhibition Durfee designed will be installed in the Wind Tunnel Gallery on Art Center's South Campus and divided into six sub-themes:

•    "As If: Alternate Realities" explores the uses of role playing and fictional histories in design. Contributors to this section include: Noam Toran, a London-based conceptual designer who creates real props for imagined scenarios, and the Brooklyn-based design-office Commonwealth, whose projects include other-worldly head-pieces produced in collaboration with film director Timothy Saccenti.
•    "Get Real: Projections and Scenarios" looks at productive and provocative modes of speculative practice, including corporate visioning videos from the promotional to the satirical.
•    "Faking It: Larks and Lies" considers the use of design as a unique medium for humor and critique, and includes work by Maywa Denki, MOS, and writer/designer/artist alter-ego Dexter Sinister.
•    "In Your Dreams: The Fantastic" looks at the influence and effect of dreams and fantasy in a diversity of work – from the cyber-baroque of Hernan Diaz Alonzo to the sunny mash-ups of graphic designer Juliette Bellocq.
•    "Made Belief: Building Ideas" looks at objects, media, and spaces that exist as non-verbal embodiments of ideology, including visionary utopias and dystopias. Diverse examples of political design range from the work of Dutch designers Metahaven to that of visionary architect Lebbeus Woods.
•    "Un-Unreal: The Incredible Everyday" returns the visitor to the here and now, but with new eyes for recognizing the remarkable, strange and fantastic in familiar daily life. Featured in this section are the fashion designers Rodarte, and recent Royal College of Art graduate Andrew Friend, who creates devices to enable unforgettable—if somewhat perilous—encounters with the real world, such as a portable lightning-rod that produces a tiny brand on the arm of the owner.

About the MADE UP Lecture Series
The MADE UP exhibition will be complemented by a provocative lecture series. The first, pre-exhibition panel discussions (announced separately) are scheduled to begin in fall 2010. In 2011, Art Center invites the public to its South Campus Wind Tunnel Gallery at 950 South Raymond Avenue for:

•    MADE UP Exhibition Opening , Lectures, and Discussion
Saturday, January 29
Lectures and discussion, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Exhibition Opening Reception, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Two of today's most influential people to combine design and fiction, science fiction author and Wired contributor Bruce Sterling and Fiona Raby, a partner in the London-based design firm Dunne + Raby, will join MADE UP curator Tim Durfee to ponder the possible reasons we are turning to fiction to not only inspire but facilitate the design of the near future.

•    "LIES: An evening of readings and screenings," co-presented with THE BIG CITY FORUM
Saturday, February 19
Readings and screenings, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Doors open 6:00 p.m.

Co-curated by MADE UP organizer Tim Durfee and Big City Forum, this very special evening will feature a radically eclectic and esteemed group of designers, artists and writers for whom writing or other narrative forms operate in a critical dialogue with visual practice. Confirmed participants include Michael Meredith, who will screen "Notes for Those Beginning the Discipline of Architecture," and Tom Marble, who will read from “After The City, This,” in addition to Keith Mitnick, Alexandra Grant, Michael Joyce, Denise Gonzales Crisp, Janet Sarbanes and Zoe Crosher.

•    "GET REAL: Conjuring the Future"
Friday, March 11
Panel discussion, 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Reception, 5:00-7:00 pm

This panel will explore the design of fantastical props, interfaces, and environments for both science fiction films and corporate user scenarios. How do these props, probes, and prototypes influence the development of new technologies? How do they serve as R&D for the culture-at-large? The presentations will range from the ultra-vivid future worlds produced in Hollywood to the idealized lifestyles envisioned in the Silicon Valley and Pacific Northwest. Jason Tester, a research & design manager at the Institute for the Future and Ian Sands, founder of Intentional Futures and former Director of Envisioning for Microsoft Office Labs, will be among the speakers.

"It is the responsibility of graduate programs in design to push the field in new directions. Our goal with the MADE UP series, both the exhibitions and the lectures, is to bring the work of our students and faculty into direct dialogue with the most daring work that we can find from around the world. In so doing, we hope to pose new questions and, frankly, change the way that designers think," said Burdick.

"It is becoming increasingly necessary for art and design colleges to engage in this kind of critical culture building—both for our students and for the region. At Art Center, we are participants in the world around us, whether we are volunteering within our community or offering new ideas to the creative fields. Our goal is to lead by example," said Dr. Lorne Buchman, president of Art Center College of Design.

All MADE UP events are free and open to the public. Normal hours of operation for the Wind Tunnel Galley are Saturdays and Sundays from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. or by appointment.

About the Graduate Media Design Program
Art Center’s graduate program in Media Design offers a two- or three-year Master of Fine Arts curriculum that helps ambitious designers from a variety of backgrounds become design leaders and researchers in emerging fields. Graduate Media Design prepares designers for a world in which virtually anything—from a new material to a global network—may be the next medium or platform of communication.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education and the first design school to receive the United Nations’ Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status. Art Center offers bachelor’s degrees in advertising, entertainment design, environmental design, film, fine art, graphic design, illustration, photography and imaging, product design and transportation design. A graduate program of study can lead to a master’s degree in art, broadcast cinema, industrial design and media design. The college also offers a series of programs for the general public, including Art Center at Night, its continuing studies program; Saturday High for high school students; Art Center for Kids for children in the fourth through eighth grades; and the Design-Based Learning program for K-12 educators.

Following an exhaustive, global search, Art Center College of Design has appointed alumnus and educational leader Fred Fehlau to the position of provost, it was announced today by Art Center President, Dr. Lorne M. Buchman.

"Fred's vast experience and association with the College as a student, artist, educator and administrator provides him with a rich perspective and a deep understanding of this institution that will be a tremendous asset in his new role as provost," Dr. Buchman said. "On a personal note, having worked closely with Fred this past year on the strategic planning process and the recent WASC accreditation, I have the utmost confidence in Fred's leadership abilities and administrative skills."

Mr. Fehlau said, "I am committed to serving students and faculty by creating an environment in which creative, ethical and critically relevant professional art and design practices can develop and thrive, to exploring how visually literate and responsible individuals can deploy their talents across a diverse range of social and cultural activities, and to insuring that Art Center demands of itself what it asks of its students —a life-long commitment to learning at all levels."

During his academic career at Art Center, Mr. Fehlau has served as a full-time professor teaching classes in multiple departments and earned seven Great Teacher Awards from the disciplines of Fine Art, Photography and Imaging, Graphic Design and Foundation Studies. He has taken on increasing roles of responsibility at the College, serving as interim chair of the Graphic Design Department, chair of the Senior Education Committee and chair of the Foundation Studies Department (now Integrated Studies). Most recently, Mr. Fehlau has been the institutional accreditation liaison officer and dean of Academic Affairs.

Art Center worked closely with executive search firm Isaacson, Miller to identify and recruit candidates from higher education, art and design practice and industry with strong leadership skills and proven experience in organizational change management, strategic planning, and operational management. More than 300 candidates expressed interest in the position and, ultimately, the College’s search committee felt Mr. Fehlau best displayed both the qualifications to meet the College’s expectations and the commitment to be successful as Art Center’s provost.

Karen Hofmann, chair of Art Center’s Product Design Department and chair of the Provost Search Committee, said, "While the committee was presented with excellent candidates, at this point in time Art Center needs a provost who is ready to rethink our assumptions about art and design education in the 21st century, to work with educational leadership to shape curriculum and pedagogy that moves Art Center into its next era and to give our students a means of making themselves into creative citizens. Of all the candidates, Fred displayed vast experience, dedication and valuable insight to take on this challenge."

Mr. Fehlau's appointment cements a new era of leadership at the College, following the announcements of Dr. Buchman as the new president in October 2009 and Robert C. Davidson Jr. as chairman of the Board of Trustees in February 2010. Since his arrival and in conjunction with Art Center’s 80th Anniversary, Dr. Buchman has been working collaboratively with students, faculty, the Board of Trustees and other key constituents to envision the future of art and design education at Art Center. As provost, Mr. Fehlau will be responsible for leading faculty and department chairs in improving, designing and implementing changes to bring Art Center’s goals to fruition. Additionally, he will supervise student-related functions and services and will assist the president in various external activities, including fundraising.

Mr. Fehlau has been involved with and highly committed to Art Center for many years. He earned both his BFA and MFA in Fine Art from Art Center, graduating with distinction from the undergraduate program and with honors from the graduate program. He is a working graphic designer and a professional studio artist whose works and curatorial projects have been featured in numerous one-person museum and gallery exhibitions around the world.

In developing countries and impoverished communities around the world, obtaining clean water is a daily struggle. Through the aegis of Art Center College of Design's Designmatters and Environmental Design departments, the College partnered with fellow N.G.O. Un Techo Para mi Pais ("A Roof for My Country") to address the everyday needs of the impoverished people in Campamento San José, Santiago, Chile, given their unreliable access to potable water.

The transdisciplinary Safe Agua team brought together Art Center students from five majors: Environmental Design, Product Design, Graphic Design, Transportation Design, and Graduate Broadcast Cinema under the leadership of faculty members Penny Herscovitch, Daniel Gottlieb and Liliana Becerra that embarked on a two-week field research trip to Chile to meet families living under these difficult conditions. To address opportunities discovered through field research, the team designed six innovative water solutions at a range of scales: a low-cost portable shower (Ducha Halo); a water purification kit for a 5-gallon bucket; a gravity-fed system to simulate running water; a multipurpose kitchen workstation  (reLava); a community laundry and gathering space (Mila); and a campaign and publication for people living in campamentos ("slums") to share their own inventions. The families from Campamento San Jose, in preparation for real world implementation, tested prototypes from the class.

Soon after the Safe Agua studio class ended, an 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck Chile in February 2010. The need for emergency relief products like the Safe Agua projects became all the more acute as the quake severely damaged more than 500,000 homes, affecting 1.5 million people. Immediately after the earthquake hit, Un Techo Para mi Pais worked with Chilean companies to manufacture and test refined prototypes, and bring them to families who had lost their homes in the earthquake. While unanticipated, the accelerated implementation of three of the prototype solutions: Ducha Halo, the reLava sink, and the Mila Community Laundry, underscores the contributions designers can make to effect social change and in response to natural disasters.

Art Center president Dr. Lorne M. Buchman said, "It is projects like Safe Agua that clearly illustrate the influence designers and design education can play in addressing significant real-world problems. The learning involved was important for our students not only as design professionals but, equally important, as members of a global society who respect difference."

Mariana Amatullo, vice president of Designmatters, adds, "Art and Design education for social impact beyond the studio's walls is a foundational tenet of Designmatters; in this sense the human impact of the two weeks the Safe Agua team spent immersed with the families in Chile has transcended the pedagogical value and cultural enrichment that we anticipated."

Safe Agua inspired other Art Center teams to develop strategic, awareness-building communications to strengthen the project's overall impact and document its success including the Safe Agua book, developed under the direction of Graphic Design faculty member Lisa Wagner, a film by Graduate Broadcast Cinema student Elizabeth Bayne, titled "Safe Agua Chile: the Documentary," and "Safe Agua: the Harry Gota Story," an animated short film conceived under the direction of Ming Tai, Art Center's Director of Motion Graphics in the Graphic Design Department.

Currently, the social innovation dimension of the Safe Agua Project is the focus of an Art Center exhibition at the Cumulus conference, "Young Creators for Better City & Better Life," being held in conjunction with the Shanghai World Expo, at Tongji University, China (September 8 through October 8). During the conference, several panel presentations about the collaboration between Un Techo Para mi Pais and Art Center will bring together the lead creative team of Safe Agua to discuss how design education can be a catalyst for societal change.

"Our ultimate goal is to create one Latin America, without abject poverty, where every family has a decent house and access to opportunities to improve their quality of life," said Julian Ugarte, Director of the Innovation Center at Un Techo para mi Pais "Our work with Designmatters at Art Center has proven that that such a future is possible."

The multifaceted relevance of the overall project is also underscored by the support and endorsement of the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is also supporting Safe Agua in the context of the Chile-California plan. Distributed Art Publishers (D.A.P.) will distribute the Safe Agua book nationwide in Spring 2011.  *** Limited copies of the publication are available to members of the media writing about Safe Agua Chile.

The entire Safe Agua Chile project has been well documented by students and faculty on the Safe Agua blog, blogs.artcenter.edu/safewaterchile/, as well as on the Designmatters website, www.artcenter.edu/designmatters.

About Designmatters at Art Center (www.artcenter.edu/designmatters)
As an educational department and Concentration at Art Center, Designmatters partners with every discipline to focus on art and design education with a social impact agenda and "real-world" outcomes. The work is implemented through a series of unique partnerships and alliances with global development agencies, government groups, academic institutions, local and national non-profits, and leading industry. Through Designmatters, students are invited to apply their talent, creativity and tool-box of skills to address some of the most troubling humanitarian and social challenges of our time with empathy, discipline, and unwavering optimism to effect change.#  

About Art Center College of Design (www.artcenter.edu)
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry and preparing students for professional practice, Art Center is the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, providing opportunities for students to create design based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College's 80-year history, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society.

Art Center College of Design has appointed Arwen Duffy as senior vice president, Development and External Affairs, it was announced today by College president, Dr. Lorne M. Buchman.
 
In this newly created position, Ms. Duffy will oversee Art Center's fundraising, marketing and communications efforts. Among the College's top fundraising initiatives this year is the "80 for 80" campaign, a $2 million effort to provide the equivalent of 80 $25,000 scholarships for students in Art Center's undergraduate, graduate and public education programs. Launched in conjunction with Art Center's 80th anniversary, the 80 for 80 initiative signifies the College's long-term commitment to increase the accessibility and affordability of a superlative art and design education.
 
"We are fortunate indeed to find an individual with Arwen's talents and experience to lead the College's fundraising efforts in support of our core mission," said Dr. Buchman. "There is nothing more fundamental to Art Center than providing access and opportunity to talented, deserving students and I look forward to a rewarding and successful future in partnership with her."
 
"As the College celebrates its 80th anniversary it's an auspicious time to join Art Center," said Ms. Duffy. "The College has a wonderful legacy of support from distinguished individuals, foundations and corporations. I hope to build on this legacy to ensure that Art Center students have the resources needed to reach their full potential for effecting positive change through innovative art and design."

Most recently, Ms. Duffy has served as Vice President for Advancement at California Institute of the Arts, where she led the $150 million "Campaign for CalArts" to a successful conclusion in June 2009 and built highly effective programs in development, alumni relations, marketing, public relations and advancement services. Under her leadership, the Advancement office--through strong partnerships with the Institute's academic and public programs--significantly increased CalArts' visibility and community of supporters. Previously, Ms. Duffy worked at UCLA and Los Angeles Contemporary Exhibitions (LACE) in various development roles. Arwen earned a MFA in Art from CalArts and a BA in Art from Yale University.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry, Art Center is the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, providing opportunities for students to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College's 80-year history, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society.

During the summertime, Art Center College of Design teaches teachers—and the results make the first day of the next school year an eagerly anticipated event.

Using a methodology called Design-Based Learning, Art Center has found a proven way to empower educators to excite students about learning, improve their test scores and boost their overall performance—in any subject. The college has made this approach the cornerstone of its award-winning Summer Institute for Teachers, an intensive five-day program for K-12 teachers in all subject areas and grade levels.

"At the Summer Institute for Teachers, brand new and deeply experienced teachers alike will pack their toolkits with practical techniques they can use to inspire, involve and energize their students and help them develop reasoning and problem-solving skills, no matter the subject, the curriculum, or the grade level," explained Dana Walker, Managing Director of Public Programs at Art Center College of Design.

"One of the strengths of the Summer Institute for Teachers is that Design-Based Learning is not intended to replace the techniques teachers are successfully using now," added Paula Goodman, Director of the K-12 Programs at Art Center College of Design. "Rather, this approach gives teachers a powerful new methodology for presenting challenging concepts and reaching various types of learners, including at-risk, gifted, ADD and ADHD students."

The faculty of the Summer Institute for Teachers is made up of public school educators who have earned a master’s degree in Design-Based Learning from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona and have successfully put this innovative methodology to work in their own K-12 classrooms.

In engaging hands-on workshops, they teach Summer Institute participants how to enhance their own students’ comprehension and tap into the children’s natural creativity to develop higher-level thinking. The participants take away techniques that require nothing more than basic classroom materials such as paper, pencils, glue and recyclables, so their teaching will not be adversely affected by budget cutbacks or textbook changes.

Teachers using Design-Based Learning challenge their students to create never-before-seen solutions to specific problems. As an example, a sixth grade class studying ancient Egypt, China, Greece and Mesopotamia might work in teams to build a 3D scale model of a place in that ancient world. Doing so compels them to answer questions such as "What types of dwellings will people live in?" and "What values will they live by?" Motivated by the need to answer their own questions, students search for solutions in required texts. In this way, the Design-Based Learning approach "sneaks up on learning" by engaging students' innate curiosity in a fun, interactive environment.

The Summer Institute will be offered July 28-30 and August 2-3, 2010, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day. The course is worth four semester units of professional staff development credit. Tuition is $680 for credit (non-credit tuition is $500) and discounts are available to teacher pairs from the same school.

Full-tuition scholarships are also available as a result of generous donations from the Ford Motor Company Fund, the Hutto-Patterson Foundation, Washington Mutual and Art Center Partners. For more information, visit http://www.artcenter.edu/teachers/summer_institute_info.php.

Past Summer Institute participants were teachers from public school districts across Southern California, from Alhambra and Beverly Hills to Glendale and the Los Angeles Unified School District. Teachers from charter schools from Pacoima to Santa Monica as well as from independent schools including the Harvard-Westlake School and the St. Patrick’s School Diocese of San Diego also have attended.

During the 2009 Summer Institute, Victoria Lannom, an eighth grade teacher of multiple subjects from Sierra Vista Middle School (part of the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District) shared that, "I feel that I am learning with a mindset that has been blown open to endless possibilities. I have the same excitement that I did going into my first year of teaching, the excitement that I might actually make a change/difference in students’ lives. I feel that I have#the capability to now prepare my students for the here, now and beyond."

About the Summer Institute for Teachers (http://www.artcenter.edu/teachers/)
Founded in 2002, the Summer Institute for Teachers received the 2006 Award of Merit in K-12 Architectural Education from the American Architectural Foundation. Also in 2006, Art Center’s Leslie Stoltz received a California School Board Association Golden Bell Award for excellence in education for her work in Design-Based Learning with the Chapparal Middle School in Diamond Bar, California. Design-Based Learning was developed by Doreen Nelson, a professor at Art Center College of Design and California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and a recipient of the California State University 2006 Wang Family Excellence Award in education. Nelson directs the Summer Institute for Teachers.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education and the first design school to receive the United Nations’ Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status. Art Center offers bachelor’s degrees in advertising, entertainment design, environmental design, film, fine art, graphic design, illustration, photography and imaging, product design and transportation design. A graduate program of study can lead to a master’s degree in art, broadcast cinema, industrial design and media design. The college also offers a series of programs for the general public, including Art Center at Night, its continuing studies program; Saturday High for high school students; Art Center for Kids for children in the fourth through eighth grades; and the Design-Based Learning program for K-12 educators.

Art Center College of Design, a global leader in art and design education, formally welcomes Dr. Penny Florence as department chair, Humanities and Design Sciences (HDS), it was announced today by Art Center’s acting chief academic officer Nikolas Hafermaas.

Mr. Hafermaas, who is also chair of the College’s Graphic Design Department, said, “Penny’s appointment reflects the critical role that humanities play in our art and design education. Art Center has been around for 80 years and it’s clear that the College must continue to evolve not only the way we teach art and design, but how we educate students outside these fields. Well-rounded individuals will be better global citizens and that in turn will inform their art and design practice.”

“Art Center is a great school, and I have always been impressed with the students, faculty and staff during my visits. But there’s something more—the College feels very dynamic at the moment and I want to contribute to this,” said Dr. Florence. “HDS is a cross-disciplinary program whose potential interests me a great deal. Thinking across disciplines is a big reason why a background in the humanities and design sciences is valuable for artists and designers. It enables you to look at the field of art and design in its entirety, which will always be useful—and sometimes essential.”

As chair, Dr. Florence will oversee the Department’s pedagogy in design research, writing, art and design history, humanities, and the social and physical sciences. She will further develop the integration of HDS content into studio classes and expand the academic HDS curriculum independent of studio work. Additionally, Dr. Florence will be charged with advancing a curriculum within HDS that provides Art Center students with a liberal arts education comparing favorably with that of any art school or university art or design program in the United States.

Dr. Florence was previously the Head of Research Programs at The Slade School of Fine Art, University College London, and formerly Professor of Contemporary Arts and Director of Research at University College Falmouth, UK, where she inaugurated and led the PhD program. An interdisciplinary PhD graduate from the University of York, UK, she has visited and lectured at Universities in Europe and the USA a number of times, including Art Center's Graduate Art program. She has written or edited six interdisciplinary books traversing visual art and theory, film, poetry, painting and feminism, and contributed to about seventeen others. Her most recent publications are Sexed Universals in Contemporary Art (2004), Looking Back to the Future with Griselda Pollock (2001) and Differential Aesthetics (2000). She recently held a series of events at Tate Modern, London, on the relation between modern art and electronic poetry titled e and eye.

Dr. Florence’s appointment follows an international search conducted by a committee comprised of faculty members from the Humanities and Design Sciences Department, students, alumni and staff as chaired by Art Center’s Dean of Academic Affairs, Fred Fehlau.

*** Dr. Florence will be available as needed for interviews with the media. Members of the press should contact Jered Gold, director of Public Relations and Communications, at 626.396.2251 or jered.gold@artcenter.edu.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry, Art Center is the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, providing opportunities for students to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College's 80-year history, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society.

Students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of Art Center College of Design will join together for “Art Center Takes Action: A Day of Service in Pasadena,” a volunteer initiative launched in celebration of Art Center’s 80th Anniversary, it was announced today by College president, Dr. Lorne M. Buchman.

In making the announcement, Dr. Buchman said, “Art Center has an exceptionally strong reputation with a global reach. It has made a positive difference in the world. There are moments, however, when we simply need to focus on our local community and respond to its needs. The Pasadena community has been a significant factor in our success for years, and we must seek opportunities to give back in meaningful ways. ‘Art Center Takes Action’ is one of those important opportunities.”

Among the local organizations that Art Center volunteers will engage with include AIDS Service Center (http://www.aidsservicecenter.org), which develops and delivers services, advocacy and education tailored to improve the quality of life for those impacted by and at risk for HIV/AIDS; The Boys & Girls Clubs of Pasadena (http://www.bgcpasadena.org), whose goal is to improve the lives of children by helping them build self-assurance and develop leadership skills while reinforcing positive values; the Rose Bowl Operating Company (http://www.rosebowlstadium.com), which manages Pasadena’s historic stadium and professional quality golf course; and Villa Gardens Retirement Community (http://www.villagardens.org), one of the City’s premier retirement communities, which offers its residents opportunities both stimulating and relaxing.

Dean of students Jeffrey Hoffman said, “We strive to provide opportunities for our students to get the most out of their educational experience both inside and outside the classroom. Art Center’s Day of Service will provide such an opportunity for students from diverse backgrounds to build relationships with their local community—a place they call home.”

“AIDS Service Center depends on volunteers in the community to provide the services so necessary to our clients throughout Los Angeles County,” said Anthony Guthmiller, director of Development and Marketing for the AIDS Service Center. “Having Art Center step-up and volunteer their time and energy is a crucial part of our success.”

“Art Center Takes Action: A Day of Service in Pasadena” will kick-off at 8:00am on Saturday, June 12 at Pasadena’s Memorial Park. Volunteers will have breakfast with Dr. Buchman and representatives from participating organizations. From there, teams of Art Center volunteers will be dispatched to locations around the City to take on such tasks as collecting food, cleaning, beautification projects and special activities.

For more information, please contact Art Center’s Office of Public Relations at 626.396.2338.

Members of the media are welcome to join the volunteers throughout the day. Those interested in covering Art Center’s day of volunteer activities should contact Jered Gold, Director of Public Relations and Communications, at 626.396.2251 or jered.gold@artcenter.edu.

“‘Art Center Takes Action’ is more than just a one day effort,” Mr. Hoffman continued. “Since announcing the initiative, we’ve really sparked an interest among the student body to get involved in the Pasadena community. And in reaching out to local organizations—even more than those that are participating in the Day of Service—we’ve already begun to build a network of campus community members willing and eager to give back to their local community.”

Advertising student Ray Allan David said, “I’m really excited to take part in Art Center’s Day of Service. It is important to me as an individual to give back to my community and I’m proud of Art Center’s commitment to the many organizations that rely on volunteer assistance throughout the City of Pasadena.”

Founded in 1930, Art Center College of Design is celebrating its 80th anniversary throughout 2010. Renowned for imbuing graduates with a commitment to both professional practice and commercial success, Art Center provides many opportunities for students to explore responsible design through social, humanitarian and sustainable initiatives. The College also places a growing emphasis on providing students with a well-rounded education, building on its already substantial curriculum in the humanities and design sciences.

The student body of Art Center College of Design is a vibrant mix of local, national and international students who are guided in their creative development by a distinguished faculty, most of whom are practicing professionals. During the College's 80-year history, Art Center's diverse alumni have had a profound impact on our culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society. Art Center Takes Action: A Day of Service in Pasadena is a natural extension of that commitment to providing real-world education to tomorrow’s designers today.

Visit Art Center’s official blog, The Dotted Lone, for daily updates about the College’s programs and events, including “Art Center Takes Action” and other 80th Anniversary activities: www.artcenter.edu/dottedline.

About Art Center College of Design (www.artcenter.edu)
Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education and the first design school to receive the United Nations’ Non- Governmental Organization (NGO) status. Art Center offers bachelor’s degrees in advertising, entertainment design, environmental design, film, fine art, graphic design, illustration, photography and imaging, product design and transportation design. A graduate program of study can lead to a master’s degree in art, broadcast cinema, industrial design and media design. The College also offers a series of programs for the general public, including Art Center at Night, its continuing studies program; Saturday High for high school students; Art Center for Kids for children in the fourth through eighth grades; and the Design-Based Learning program for K-12 educators.

Art Center College of Design, in association with NMC Partners, will host a gathering of leaders and innovators in imaging, technology, media and education at the first-ever Imaging DNA conference, it was announced today by Dennis Keeley, chair of Art Center’s Photography and Imaging Department, who will also moderate the two-day event.

In an environment of knowledge and practice, Imaging DNA is designed to immerse attendees in the ideas, discussion and debate around making, displaying, licensing or otherwise using an image. Imaging DNA will explore the history of photography and use it as a platform to discuss the future in order to empower photographers with critical knowledge about the changing nature of what it means to be an image-maker in the 21st century.

“Imaging DNA is poised to be the crossroads for artists, educators, photographers and futurists—and therefore a perfect fit for Art Center,” Mr. Keeley said. “As the College celebrates its 80th Anniversary, the way the world captures, enhances and distributes photographs is continually transformed by technology. In the Photography and Imaging Department at Art Center, we focus on what does not change: the essence of great photography.”

Kathleen Buczko, partner of NMC Partners, said, “At NMC Partners, we have always blazed new trails.  Core to that trailblazing is the belief that bringing together students, professionals and thought leaders around key ideas is essential to breaking barriers, solving problems and creating new horizons. Imaging DNA will do just that and Art Center is the right partner to help make it happen.”

Imaging DNA kicks-off on July 10 with fast track presentations about important topics that have shaped and will redefine photography and imaging. Parallel afternoon panels discuss the image in the age of transient media, archival permanence and the evolution of photographic education. The day concludes with “The Great Debate,” a spirited discussion about traditional, digital and hybrid methods in photography. 

The evening features a networking party for all attendees, which will benefit the No-Strings Foundation (www.nostringsfoundation.org), the FiftyCrows Foundation (www.fiftycrows.org) and scholarships for students in Art Center’s Photography and Imaging Department (www.artcenter.edu). 

On July 11, morning roundtables with conference presenters will be followed by further networking opportunities.

Imaging DNA will take place at Art Center College of Design’s Hillside Campus in the Ahmanson Auditorium, located at 1700 Lida Street, Pasadena, CA 91103. Full conference registration is $549, with discounts available for students. BYOB morning discussion tickets are also available. For more information and to register, go to www.imagingdna.com. Regular updates are also available on Twitter, www.twitter.com/imagingdna. 

Imaging DNA logo designed by Bold Collective (www.boldcollective.com),
an L.A.-based graphic design firm established by four Art Center graduates.

About NMC Partners (www.nmcpartners.com)
Founded in 1996, NMC Partners is a leading social media and marketing firm with experience in a wide range of industries, and specialty practices in imaging, software, clean energy, sports and fitness, and non-profits.  A pioneer in planning, measurement and program execution NMC Partners believes marketing is a strategic asset that can be managed to achieve and exceed goals. At NMC Partners, effective programs are the by-product of partnership and seamless performance between innovators. 

About Art Center College of Design (www.artcenter.edu)
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry and preparing students for professional practice, Art Center is the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, providing opportunities for students to create design based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College's 80-year history, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society.

* * *

The Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery at Art Center College of Design is continuing its series of explorations into the intersecting domains of art, science, technology, and design with side-by-side exhibitions that look at the interplay between the technologies used to fabricate objects and the thought-processes used to conceive them.  The complementary exhibits “The Curious World of Patent Models” and “The Future of Objects” will be on display June 4 to August 15, 2010, it was announced today by Stephen Nowlin, vice president of Art Center College of Design and director of the Williamson Gallery. 

The relationship between technology and its influence over the process of conceptualizing objects, inventions, and innovations is referenced overtly in “The Curious World of Patent Models,” an exhibit of more than fifty scale models representing ideas submitted for United States Patent protection circa 1800-1880. 

A separate but related exhibit, “The Future of Objects,” displays new digital-age fabrication and prototyping techniques in which startlingly complex forms are conceived and “grown” by machines known as 3D printers.  As the exhibit reveals, technologies related to those used every day in households and offices to print 2D information on flat pieces of paper are now being used to “grow” freestanding 3D objects in physical space, using a variety of solid materials. 

According to Mr. Nowlin, “The impact of these new technologies in fields of specialized industrial design are being increasingly felt, but in pursuits such as contemporary art they are still barely known.  Yet in the very near future they are certain to revolutionize all object-making to a degree that may well equal or even exceed the cultural impact of the 19th-century’s Industrial Revolution.”

He continued, “As we celebrate Art Center’s 80th anniversary, it’s fitting to showcase advanced computer modeling and 3D printing techniques that will very soon become such a big part of the planet’s visual culture.  Exhibiting 19th-century fabrication beside 21st-century technology opens up a whole new conversation about what is coming in the future and where it came from.”

Established in 1790 by Thomas Jefferson, the U.S. Patent Office required inventors to submit a working scale model of their invention along with their patent application. Continuing through 1880 and the Industrial Revolution, this policy was responsible for creating a historical archive of innovation, vision, ingenuity and artistic ambition. Organized by the Rothschild Patent Model Collection (patentmodel.org), “The Curious World of Patent Models” showcases more than fifty of these one-of-a-kind artifacts along with their original accompanying documentation.

 “These historic artifacts depict America’s heritage of inventiveness, and exemplify the spirit upon which our country was founded,” explained collector Alan Rothschild. “They showcase the innovation of the nation’s past and serve to foster a new generation of American inventive spirit.”

As descendants of “The Curious World of Patent Models” and its spirit of inventiveness, objects in “The Future of Objects” showcase cutting-edge forms and prototype fabrication.  Some have been created in Art Center’s Technical Skills Center—working with the same equipment students have access to as part of their professional education. Art Center also has partnered with Solid Concepts Inc., North America’s largest multiple technology company, to showcase additional contemporary forms.

David Cawley, director of Art Center’s Rapid Prototyping and Model Shops, said “What’s incredibly remarkable is that the 3D printing technology showcased in “The Future of Objects” is going to be commonplace in the next 10 years or so.  Just as the PC revolutionized the way we live and do business, we’ll have 3D printers in the home which will benefit us in ways we can’t begin to imagine.  Both the applied arts and the fine arts will move into uncharted new territories using these magical tools.”

“As a way of symbolizing the bridge between past and future technologies and their impact on human ideation,” Mr. Cawley continued, “we plan to digitally scan one of the hundred-fifty year-old patent models and grow two clones using a 3D printer.  One will be displayed in the exhibit and the other presented to the Rothschild Patent Model Collection as a commemoration of the profound links existing between past and future innovation.”

Scott McGowan of Solid Concepts added, “We jumped at the chance to partner with Art Center.  They have a true understanding of the importance of manufacturing and computer technologies to both the worlds of business and culture.  Art Center is renowned for its emphasis on innovation and commercial success.  These two exhibitions are a nice way of referencing the importance of craftsmanship—equal parts art and design—to commercial success.”

Art Center will host an opening reception for both exhibitions on Thursday, June 3, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.  The event is free and open to the public.  The two exhibitions will continue through August 15, 2010.  Williamson Gallery hours are noon to 5:00 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday and noon to 9:00 p.m. Friday; the gallery is closed Mondays and holidays.  For gallery information, call 626.396.2446.

The Williamson Gallery presentation of “The Curious World of Patent Models” and “The Future of Objects” is funded in part by the Williamson Gallery Patrons and a grant from the Pasadena Art Alliance.

“The Curious World of Patent Models” will be presented by the Rothschild Patent Model Collection to audiences on a fourteen-city national tour over a three-year period.  Smith Kramer Fine Art Services, an exhibition tour development company in Kansas City, Missouri, developed and manages the tour. 

About Solid Concepts  (www.solidconcepts.com)
Founded in 1991, Solid Concepts supplies rapid prototyping, direct digital manufacturing, tooling and injection molding services. Solid Concepts has grown steadily to a five-facility, multiple technology company known to be a solutions provider with project management and engineering expertise. Capabilities in high precision 3D printing, Stereolithography (SLA) models and patterns, HDSL (High Definition Stereolithography), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Direct Digital Manufacturing, CNC models and patterns, and QuantumCast™ advanced urethane castings, allows for low-volume production of plastic, urethane, and metal components directly from design data, resulting in significant time and cost savings. Capabilities in tooling and injection molding make Solid Concepts a one-stop source to bring concepts from prototype to finished product ready for market. ISO 9001:2008 and AS9100 Rev. B certified.

About the Technical Skills Center
The Technical Skills Center is the creation hub for many Art Center departments, providing access to the Model Shop, Paint Booths, Rapid Prototyping, Metal Shop, Computer Numeric Control, Laser, Plaster Room, Sanding Room, Composite Lab and Tool Crib.   The work areas in the shops are equipped with the latest professional equipment required to complete projects in woodworking, metal fabrication, vacuum forming, plastic sheet fabrication, and fiberglass and composite fabrication.  There are dedicated facilities for sanding and buffing, rubber-mold making, plastic casting, sandblasting, spray-painting and plaster fabrication.  All Art Center students have access to the latest in rapid prototyping technologies in the College’s 3D prototyping shops, including various types of 3D printers, mills and routers.  Laser cutters are also available to cut or etch plastic, wood or composites for a wide range of projects.

About the Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery
The Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery at Art Center College of Design has established a national reputation for its ongoing series of exhibitions exploring the boundaries, relationships, and perspectives of art and science. Recent projects include “Things That Float,” a NASA Images online exhibition accessible through williamsongallery.net/nasaimages; OBSERVE, a collaboration with the NASA/JPL Spitzer Science Center bringing artists and astronomers together to produce original works of art; and TOOLS, an exhibition about the historical relationship between humans and their tools which drew objects from the domains of art, science, natural and cultural history. For Google links to the Williamson Gallery art/science programs, visit williamsongallery.net/google.

About Art Center College of Design (www.artcenter.edu)
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry and preparing students for professional practice, Art Center is the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, providing opportunities for students to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College’s 80 years, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on our culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society.

* * *

The L.A. Earthquake Sourcebook and the short film Preparedness Now, both developed at Art Center College of Design as part of “The Los Angeles Earthquake: Get Ready” project, will be showcased in Cooper-Hewitt’s 2010 National Design Triennial, it was announced today by Mariana Amatullo, vice president and director of Designmatters, the College’s social impact educational initiative.

Under the aegis of Designmatters, Art Center students, faculty, alumni and a critically acclaimed team of artists in partnership with leading scientists and community experts generated new research and visual communication tools about seismic safety as part of the “Get Ready” project. Since its implementation the project has become a national and international reference, exemplary of the power of design thinking applied to disaster preparedness.

“When we initiated the research phase for ‘The Los Angeles Earthquake: Get Ready’ project we were coping with the aftermath and systemic disruption caused by Hurricane Katrina, and seeking to understand how we could use the art and design expertise of our community as a catalyst for resiliency in our own backyard. We wanted to provoke a conversation about preparedness and rally public attention around it,” Ms. Amatullo said. “Today, we look back at this project that has engaged so many of our students, faculty, alumni and a multidisciplinary consortia of partners nationally through Designmatters with a great sense of accomplishment. The conversation we started keeps resonating with the same sense of urgency and relevance as before.”

Ellen Lupton, curator, Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum, said, “The Designmatters program at Art Center is leading the way in integrating real-world social activism into the design curriculum. Students are learning what can happen when groups and institutions come together around an issue.”

Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum will present the fourth exhibition in the National Design Triennial series in spring 2010. “Why Design Now?” will be on view from May 14, 2010 through Jan. 9, 2011. Inaugurated in 2000, the Triennial program seeks out and presents the most innovative designs at the center of contemporary culture. In this fourth exhibition in the series, the National Design Triennial will explore the work of designers addressing human and environmental problems across many fields of the design practice, from architecture and products to fashion, graphics, new media, and landscapes. Organized by Cooper-Hewitt curators Ellen Lupton, Cara McCarty, Matilda McQuaid and Cynthia Smith, the Triennial will be global in reach for the first time, reflecting the connectedness of design practices and the need for international cooperation to solve the world’s problems.

In addition to “The Los Angeles Earthquake: Get Ready” project, the Triennial will also feature the work of Art Center alumnus and faculty member Sean Donahue (Touch Magazine 2/3) and Graduate Industrial Design student Radhika Bhalla (Samarth Bicycle Trailer).

The L.A. Earthquake Sourcebook
Designed by award winning graphic designer Stefan Sagmeister and created by Art Center students and faculty, The L.A. Earthquake Sourcebook is a compilation of the latest knowledge and scientific data about earthquake preparedness and recovery by educational institutions, civic agencies and experts from a variety of fields. The Sourcebook includes striking illustrations and graphic imagery created by renowned designers and artists, enhancing the content in a unique and fresh way. The book also includes a number of literary excerpts from celebrated authors such as Joan Didion and others. Distributed by Distributed Art Publishers, Inc. (DAP), the book is nearly sold out and has been available in all the major niche and museum bookstores.

Preparedness Now
With Preparedness Now, Art Center alumnus and motion graphics designer Theo Alexopoulos takes viewers on a visceral journey through the USGS ShakeOut Earthquake Scenario. The film was commissioned by the USGS Multi-Hazards Demonstration Project and created in cooperation with Designmatters to depict the physical, social, and economic consequences of the most comprehensive earthquake scenario ever created. The premise underlying Preparedness Now is that design is a powerful catalyst that can bridge the divide between scientific understanding about damaging quakes and the ability of the public to feel empowered and to change their behavior in terms of preparedness. As a result, the film has been the subject of several social science studies that have underlined its powerful impact at reaching audiences with a message of preparedness and resiliency.

Following the success of the “Get Ready” project, USGS has become an ongoing partner of the College, currently collaborating with Designmatters on “The Ark Strom,” the development of communications strategies for a catastrophic storm scenario. During part one of the project, creative directors from the renowned New York ad agency Droga5 mentored Advertising students. Art Center will be working again with USGS this summer and fall term on part two of the project.

Ms. Amatullo will be attending the National Design Triennial’s Press Preview on Wednesday, May 12 from 3:00—5:00 p.m. along with Elisa Ruffino, producer and senior associate director of Designmatters, who co-facilitated “The Los Angeles Earthquake: Get Ready” project. Members of the media interested in attending the Press Preview should RSVP to the Cooper-Hewitt Press Office at 212.849.8420 or CooperHewittPress@si.edu.

About Designmatters at Art Center (www.artcenter.edu/designmatters)
Designmatters is an educational initiative that partners with every discipline at Art Center to focus on art and design education with a social impact agenda and “real-world” outcomes. The work is implemented through a series of unique partnerships and alliances with global development agencies, government groups, academic institutions, local and national non-profits, and leading industry. Through Designmatters, students are invited to apply their talent, creativity and tool-box of skills to address some of the most troubling humanitarian and social challenges of our time with empathy, discipline, and unwavering optimism to effect change.
 
About Art Center College of Design (www.artcenter.edu)
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry and preparing students for professional practice, Art Center is the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, providing opportunities for students to create design based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College's 80-year history, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society.

Stylus, the new global resource for authoritative research on the interiors industry, and Bernhardt Design announce the creation of the Stylus + Bernhardt Design American Design Honors, a new annual awards program developed to support the future of American product design. For 2010, the inaugural American Design Honors is being presented to designers in two categories: Emerging Designer of the Year is Jonah Takagi of Washington D.C.-based Atelier Takagi, and Student Designer of the Year is Ini Archibong, currently studying at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California.

Stylus and Bernhardt Design have created the American Design Honors to address the limited attention focused on American designers in the current design pantheon. Much has been made of the dearth of noted American interior product designers, which recent articles have attributed to factors including minimal corporate or government support, a scarcity of exhibition opportunities, and the prohibitive cost and complexity of entering the international design market. To address these issues, the American Design Honors will provide not only exposure for two young designers, but also financial support. In addition to receiving a cash honorarium, both honorees will be hosted by Stylus and Bernhardt Design at the 2010 International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York.

Before founding Stylus Media Group, CEO Marc Worth immersed himself in the global shelter, lifestyle, and interiors industry and realized the importance of supporting new and emerging design talents. He leapt at the chance to support young furniture designers with the honors program. “As a global information service for retailers, designers and manufacturers, Stylus has a unique opportunity to offer exposure and financial support to two designers we view as the future of the industry. We are starting with the American market, and expect that this will be just the first in a series of awards to support designers around the world.”

Bernhardt Design has been recognized for years as an important supporter of emerging designers. Now in its fifth year, their ICFF Studio program, created with George Little Management, LLC, provides a sponsored exhibit space for ten designers at the premiere design fair in the United States. Entering its sixth year is Bernhardt’s collaboration with Art Center College of Design, which challenges students to create world-class designs for mass production and has resulted in award-winning furniture such as the Loft Chair, designed by Shelly Shelly. Jerry Helling, President of Bernhardt Design, sees the American Design Honors as a necessary next step. “Bernhardt Design has been able to provide real world experiences to design students, and a high-profile exhibition platform for up and coming professionals. Now with Stylus we are able to focus serious attention on two talented individuals and hopefully assist in advancing their careers.”

To select the recipients of the inaugural American Design Honors, Stylus and Bernhardt Design combined their research and found that Takagi and Archibong stood out as young designers whose talent and drive could translate into success on the global stage. Of Emerging Designer honoree Takagi’s growing collection, Marc Worth says “Jonah's work is extremely mature and well conceived for a designer at the beginning of his career. It demonstrates the hallmarks of American design; economy of materials, restraint of line, authenticity and simplicity, and practicality coupled with a strong sense of optimism.” Helling adds “Jonah’s work achieves that perfect balance between good design and commercial appeal. His products fit into real life situations and you can immediately picture them in your home or office. Jonah’s American Gothic Table is a benchmark for how period furniture can be reinterpreted to become relevant in a modern interior.”

Student Designer honoree Archibong first came to Helling’s attention at Art Center College of Design. “A few minutes after meeting Ini, you realize you are in the presence of someone destined to achieve great things. His personal charisma complements his natural design talent - he has the drive, passion and commitment to sustain a long and successful career.” Worth agrees, saying “Ini has mature design instincts for someone just beginning to practice his craft. He also has a sense of perspective regarding design history and how his work relates in the bigger picture.” Helling concludes, “Ini has the potential to become one of America’s design ‘storytellers’, where product and narrative share equal billing.”

2010 Honorees Takagi and Archibong will have the opportunity to transform this attention into useful relationships by networking at ICFF, where they and the 2010 American Design Honors will be celebrated in a short ceremony at the Bernhardt Design Booth, #1604, at 4pm on Saturday, May 15. Manufacturers, retailers and media from the United States and around the world are invited to join Stylus and Bernhardt Design in giving these two talented young designers much needed access, exposure, and the chance to create a brighter future for American design.

# # #

About Ini Archibong
Stylus + Bernhardt Design American Design Honors
2010 Student Designer of the Year

Born and raised in Pasadena, California, 26-year-old Ini Archibong discovered his passion for the arts at Polytechnic, a highly academic college preparatory school. Polytechnic provides a strong emphasis on multidisciplinary education, and offers expansive art programs, which allowed Ini to explore woodworking, 3D digital art, enameling, batik, sculpture as well as ceramics, his main artistic focus.

After high school, Ini began his studies at University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business. He realized that he could not ignore his creative passion, and opted to focus on fine art and architectural design. He worked for two years at George Architecture in South Pasadena, where he learned the essential skills of the trade and strengthened his application to the Art Center College of Design. In 2007, he was accepted into Art Center’s Environmental Design program, with both an Edwards Entrance Scholarship and an Art Center Outreach Grant.

During internships in San Francisco and New York with Eight Inc., Ini was directly involved with designs for the Mankas Lodge in Inverness, a proposal for the Norwegian National Museum of Art in Oslo, as well as concepts and design for Nokia’s flagship stores launching in 2011.

Interested in the intersections of engineering, fine art, and architecture, Ini is influenced and inspired by the work of Alphonse Mucha, Santiago Calatrava, and Buckminster Fuller. Ini is on schedule to receive a Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Design from Art Center in 2011.

About Jonah Takagi
Stylus + Bernhardt Design American Design Honors
2010 Emerging Designer of the Year

Born in 1979 in Tokyo, Japan, and raised in Connecticut, Jonah Takagi received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2002. After graduating, Jonah lived in Portland, Oregon and worked for a cabinet maker before relocating to Washington, DC, where he designed and built sets and props for theater, film and television while helping to develop "Pancake Mountain", a kid's music television show. For the next few years, Jonah played bass guitar, toured and recorded with several indie rock bands, while also designing furniture that he built in a friend’s borrowed studio.

To develop and showcase his growing body of design work, Jonah founded Atelier Takagi in 2005. In May 2009, his American Gothic Table, inspired by “Tinkertoys, Windsor chairs and wayward Puritans”, debuted at ICFF in New York. In June 2009, Jonah's Deconstructed Prism Table was exhibited at Dwell on Design in Los Angeles. In the fall of 2009, Jonah was invited to participate in the d3 Design Talents Exhibition in Cologne, Germany. At IMM Cologne 2010, Jonah unveiled new work that included the Spun Table Lamp and the Simple Machine(s) line of furniture. In January 2010, the American Gothic Table was featured in the exhibit "American Design in Paris" at Triode Design during Maison & Objet.

Jonah’s work has been featured in multiple publications, including Numero (France), Surface (US), Pasajes Diseno (Spain), Form (Germany), Elle Decoration (Norway), Monocle (UK) and Intramuros (France).

About Stylus Media Group (Stylus)
Led by Chairman and CEO Marc Worth, the founders and management behind Stylus Media Group are industry leaders with proven expertise in running successful business information companies. Marc’s prior business, WGSN, became the essential industry tool for fashion professionals and was sold to Emap in 2005 for £150 million. Stylus Media Group (www.stylus.com) aims to be the leading global source of information and inspiration for the consumer industries – spanning interiors, beauty, health, travel, fashion, jewelry, food and the arts.

About Bernhardt Design
Bernhardt Design (www.bernhardtdesign.com) was founded in 1980 by the 120-year-old Bernhardt Furniture Company and continues to be a leader and innovator in furniture design and production. During the past 10 years, President Jerry Helling has assembled an extraordinary creative team that has positioned Bernhardt Design as one of the leading international design companies with a roster of talent that includes: Ross Lovegrove (London), Arik Levy (Paris), Yves Béhar (San Francisco), Patrick Jouin (Paris), Jeffrey Bernett (New York), Fabien Baron (Paris) Suzanne Trocmé (London), Lievore Altherr Molina (Barcelona), Christian Biecher (Paris), Shin Azumi (London), hansandfranz (Munich), Tyler Brûlé (Zurich), Jaime Hayon (Barcelona), Erla Oskarsdottir (Reykjavik), Patrick Norguet (Paris), Philippe Cramer (Geneva), Jhane Barnes (New York), Fredrikson Stallard (London), CuldeSac (Valencia), Bang Design (Sydney) and Claudia and Harry Washington (San Salvador).

In celebration of the 80th anniversary of its founding, Art Center College of Design has launched an ambitious campaign to raise $2 million in scholarships for students in its undergraduate, graduate and public education programs. The campaign, to be known as the “80 for 80” initiative (one scholarship for each year of the college’s existence), was announced today by college president Dr. Lorne M. Buchman. The funds raised will substantially defray tuition costs and make Art Center accessible to many deserving students.

“Art Center College of Design now has an illustrious eight-decade-long history of providing distinguished art and design education,” Dr. Buchman explained. “We see it as our responsibility to commit to increasing the scholarships we offer in order to ensure our unique educational offerings are accessible to a diverse population of talented students. A scholarship campaign such as this one lays the foundation for the next 80 years in the life of our institution.”

Founded in 1930, Art Center College of Design is celebrating its 80th anniversary throughout 2010. Renowned for imbuing graduates with a commitment to both professional practice and commercial success, Art Center provides many opportunities for students to explore responsible design through social, humanitarian and sustainable initiatives. The college also places a growing emphasis on providing students with a well-rounded education, building on its already substantial curriculum in the humanities and design sciences to encourage human-centered design.

The student body of Art Center College of Design is a vibrant mix of local, national and international students who are guided in their creative development by a distinguished faculty, most of whom are practicing professionals. During the college's 80-year history, Art Center's diverse alumni have had a profound impact on our culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society.

“Art Center College of Design looks to its extended community of alumni and friends to give generously to this historic scholarship campaign,” said Wayne Herron, senior director of development. “Whether our donors make gifts of $80 or $8,000, we know our scholarship students will truly appreciate every dollar given in support of their education.”

For more information about the “80 for 80” initiative, contact the Office of Development at 626.396.4216 or write to giving@artcenter.edu. Donors can make their gifts online today at artcenter.edu/giving.

 

For the first time ever Art Center College of Design will host a showcase of its graduate programs with 4 Hours Solid: Work & Ideas from the Graduate School at Art Center College of Design, it was announced today by College president Dr. Lorne M. Buchman. As part of 4 Hours Solid, Art Center’s graduate programs in Art, Broadcast Cinema, Industrial Design and Media Design will offer four jam-packed hours of exhibitions, film screenings, discussions and presentations.

4 Hours Solid will also feature “Screen/Culture,” a panel of special guests examining the ubiquity of screens in our everyday lives and their impact on makers of design, art and film. Panelists include Scott Watson, Chief Technology Officer of Walt Disney Imagineering R&D; Kevin Mack, artist and Academy Award®-winning Visual Effects Supervisor of What Dreams May Come; Mackenzie Wark, Chair of Culture and Media at Eugene Lang College and author of Gamer Theory and Hacker Manifesto; and Anne Bray, Founding Director of Freewaves, a global arts organization dedicated to collecting and connecting innovative and culturally relevant independent new media.

In making the announcement, Dr. Buchman, who will also moderate the panel discussion, said, “Art Center’s Graduate programs are concerned not only with the study of a given discipline, but also with advancing those disciplines through the invention of new formats, processes and forms. As we celebrate the College’s 80th anniversary we have a great opportunity to position our Graduate Programs firmly in the center of the discourse surrounding the future of art and design.”

Anne Burdick, Chair of Art Center’s Graduate Media Design program, said, “Art Center’s Graduate programs are wildly different in areas of study, method of instruction and curriculum offerings. At the same time, the friction between our programs creates a highly energized dialogue around higher education, art, design, business and the world around us. 4 Hours Solid is one way we hope to invite members of the global art and design community to join the conversation.”

In preparation for his panel presentation Mr. Watson said, “What a cool event this is going to be. Of course, I’m looking forward to discussing Screen/Culture with my peers in such a unique forum, but to be able to experience the work of Art Center students—fresh perspectives on art, design and film—is going to be equally exciting. As an annual event, 4 Hours Solid has the potential to be something really cutting-edge.”

Taking place on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 from 6:00—10:00 p.m., 4 Hours Solid will offer an array of programming throughout the evening—with several of Los Angeles’ roaming mobile food trucks on hand to add to the overall experience.

5:00: Industry and Media Preview
6:00:  Student Exhibitions, Presentations, Demonstrations and Screenings
7:00:  Panel Presentations: Screen/Culture
8:00:  Panel Discussion: Screen/Culture
9:00:  Student Exhibitions, Presentations, Demonstrations and Screenings

This event is free and open to the public. For more information about 4 Hours Solid,
please visit www.artcenter.edu/4HoursSolid or email mdpinfo@artcenter.edu.
(Note: website URL is case sensitive)

Artists, museum curators, film executives, business professionals and potential employers interested in attending the Industry Preview, please email mdpinfo@artcenter.edu or call 626.396.2469.

Print, broadcast and online journalists interested in attending the Media Preview, please contact Jered Gold at proffice@artcenter.edu or 626.396.2251. 

The event, coinciding with Experience Art Center at Night—an insider’s look at many of the continuing studies classes Art Center offers—also provides the College an opportunity to further develop South Campus as a community resource.

Further information about Art Center’s Graduate programs can be found online:

• Graduate Art: http://www.artcenter.edu/gradart/
• Graduate Broadcast Cinema: http://www.artcenter.edu/gradcinema
• Grad ID: http://www.artcenter.edu/gradid
• Graduate Media Design Program: http://www.artcenter.edu/mdp/

About Art Center’s South Campus
A dynamic venue, South Campus is a 100,000-square-foot former supersonic wind tunnel located in downtown Pasadena. The building was redesigned by architect Kevin Daly in 2004 and is among the first in Pasadena to be LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified. This award-winning structure houses Art Center’s Graduate Art and Media Design programs as well as Public Programs, serving the greater Los Angeles area with open enrollment classes in art and design. Also at South Campus is Archetype Press, a one-of-a-kind letterpress printing facility that includes the largest collection of rare American and European metal foundry type, wood type and ornaments in California. Additional highlights of South Campus include a printmaking studio, Design-Based Learning Lab, the Judy Slasky Memorial Rooftop Garden and The Agency, a select group of advertising students who develop projects for real-world clients. Renovations completed in 2009 provided additional classrooms, exhibition spaces and graduate studios. The campus is conveniently located next to the Metro Gold Line (Filmore Station), connecting downtown L.A. to Pasadena and the San Gabriel Valley.

Following the tragic death of Art Center College of Design alumnus and faculty member Norman Schureman this past weekend, the College has established the Norman Schureman Memorial Scholarship, it was formally announced today by Art Center President Dr. Lorne M. Buchman. The Scholarship will be available to incoming Product Design students.

In making the announcement, Dr. Buchman said, “Norm inspired hundreds of students. Not only those that he taught but those considering whether or not they even had the gumption to apply to Art Center. One of the ways the College can be true to his memory is to make sure young creatives have access to pursue a first-rate design education.”

“Norm loved being a teacher and truly believed an Art Center education was something special,” Schureman’s widow, Fati, said. “Our family is humbled that the College has come together to honor Norm with a scholarship in his name.” 

Schureman’s father, Bob, himself a faculty member at the College said, “Art Center has been such a big part of my life and the life of my son and I’ve been overwhelmed by the amount of support the Art Center community has given our family.” 

Karen Hofmann, Chair of Product Design at Art Center College of Design, said, “Norm was a friend and mentor and a source of inspiration both inside and outside of the classroom. He made students feel that they could change the world and this scholarship is a way to ensure his legacy continues.”

Individuals interested in making donations to the Scholarship can visit the College website at http://www.artcenter.edu/accd/giving.jsp or contact Senior Development Officer Palencia Turner at 626.396.2366 or palencia.turner@artcenter.edu.

Art Center’s Product Design students are taught that good design is about combining functionality, relevance and visual appeal—and that social responsibility is part of commercial viability. The program offers a rich foundation in the design sciences including user-centered research, human factors and manufacturing processes. At the same time, students gain a comprehensive understanding of materials technologies, global trends and sustainability through the College’s state-of-the-art Color, Materials and Trends Exploration Laboratory. The Product Design curriculum also includes an invaluable entrepreneurial component that provides further education in the creation of business plans and the development of profitable product lines and retail opportunities.

Admission to Art Center is based on a strong portfolio and a sound academic record in high school or college. Admission is competitive and students are serious, motivated and talented. Once admitted, students are considered for the range of Art Center’s scholarship offerings. A College catalog and financial aid brochure with scholarship information may be obtained by calling the Admissions office at 626.396.2373.

Schureman graduated from Art Center College of Design with a Bachelor of Science degree in Product Design in 1985. He began teaching at the College in 1992.

In addition to the Norman Schureman Memorial Scholarship being established by Art Center, the family will open a trust fund for Schureman’s two young sons. For questions about contributing to the trust, please contact Jered Gold, Director of Public Relations and Communications, at 626.396.2251 or jered.gold@artcenter.edu.

Art Center College of Design’s Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery has teamed with DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc (Nasdaq: DWA) to produce DreamWorlds, a behind-the-scenes look at the artistry and imagination of animated filmmaking at the studio. The exhibit, which opens March 4, will be on display at the Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery, located on Art Center’s Hillside Campus on 1700 Lida Street in Pasadena.

 

Drawing from popular DreamWorks Animation projects such as, Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar, Monsters vs. Aliens, Bee Movie, Prince of Egypt, and many others, including the soon-to-be-released How To Train Your Dragon (scheduled for theatrical release on March 26), the more than three hundred objects in the exhibition include original and digital designs and paintings, movie posters, character maquettes, miniature sets, an artist’s workstation re-creation and other creative stages of the complex filmmaking process.

 

“We are thrilled that Art Center College of Design will showcase some of the exceptional work being done by our highly talented artists at DreamWorks Animation,” said Bill Damaschke, the Company’s Co-President of Production. “Animation is an incredibly collaborative process. It is wonderful that gallery-goers will have a chance to take an in-depth journey through the many stages of our filmmaking process and see the individual contributions of our filmmakers."

 

The exhibition features the work of a number of Art Center alumni who entered the entertainment field and were lured to the creative environment at DreamWorks Animation. As Ann Field, chair of Art Center’s illustration department, explains, “Animated film takes us on a mental journey into alternative realities -- imagined, far-fetched, exaggerated, and stylized. The work is no less than magic, and falls from the pens and brushes of talented artists, illustrators and designers.”

 

Art Center has trained artists and Illustrators for the last 80 years, with a long history in training artists for animation, beginning with Disney animation artists in the 1950s. The College’s illustration program began in 1930.

 

DreamWorlds will open with a multimedia presentation, panel discussion and reception on Thursday, March 4. The presentation and panel, which will be held at Art Center’s Ahmanson Auditorium, will begin at 7 p.m. and be followed by a reception with refreshments in the Williamson Gallery at 8 p.m., and is open to the public.

 

Ross LaManna, chair of the film department at Art Center College of Design, will moderate the panel discussion which will revolve around the connection between art, illustration, story and animation. Panelists include:

 

Gail Currey, head of studio at PDI / DreamWorks Animation ;

 

Kathy Altieri, a DreamWorks Animation production designer for How to Train Your Dragon, was the first artist hired when DreamWorks was formed. She studied illustration at Art Center for three years;

 

Kendal Cronkhite, a DreamWorks Animation production designer whose credits include the Madagascar films and an Art Center alumna. She received a bachelor of fine arts degree with a major in illustration; and

 

Sam Michlap, a DreamWorks Animation production designer and visual development artist and one of the co-curators of DreamWorlds. He is a former Art Center guest instructor.

 

The Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday from 12 noon to 5 p.m. with extended hours on Friday evenings to 9 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.artcenter.edu/williamson/ or contact the gallery at 626.396.2397.

 

DreamWorlds has been made possible through the support of DreamWorks Animation, the Williamson Gallery Patrons, and the Pasadena Art Alliance. The exhibit was organized by Angela Lepito, production manager of artistic development and training at DreamWorks Animation, and curated by Stephen Nowlin, vice president and director of the College’s Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery, in collaboration with Sam Michlap, production designer at DreamWorks Animation; Ann Field, chair, and Aaron Smith, associate chair, of the illustration department at Art Center. Assistance for the show was provided by Beverly Herman, DreamWorks Animation Archivist, and Brian Smith, Production Supervisor of Research & Library, also of DreamWorks Animation.

The Board of Trustees of Art Center College of Design announced today that Robert C. Davidson Jr. has been elected board chairman. His appointment continues a new era of leadership at the College, following the announcement of a new president in October 2009.

 

Davidson is the first African-American to serve as board chairman at Art Center, and among the first African-Americans to assume Board leadership of a member institution within the Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design.

 

Mr. Davidson has served on the Board since 2004. Most recently, he served as chair of Art Center’s Presidential Search Committee, tasked with finding a new president and chief executive officer for the College, which resulted in the appointment of Dr. Lorne M. Buchman to that role. Mr. Davidson has also served on the Board’s Executive, Audit and Governance Committees, the latter of which he has chaired since 2007.

 

In making the announcement, outgoing Board Chairman John P. Puerner said, “Elevating Art Center to a place of new leadership has been rewarding. I am pleased to pass the torch to Bob, who has proven to be a valuable asset to the College and is sure to help maintain Art Center’s leadership position in art and design education.”

 

Mr. Davidson said, “It is an honor and a privilege to be asked to serve as board chairman for an institution as distinguished as Art Center. As the College celebrates its 80th anniversary, it is with a sense of excitement and renewed commitment that we will partner with Lorne to help Art Center achieve new levels of greatness.”

 

Dr. Buchman said, “I had the great privilege of getting to know Bob during the presidential search process. He proved to be deeply committed to Art Center and dedicated to helping me establish a clear vision for the College, engaging students, faculty and the entire Art Center community in imagining the future of art and design education.”

 

Dedicated to community involvement, Mr. Davidson sits on the board of a number of other organizations, including Morehouse College, where he serves as vice chairman of the Board of Trustees; Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc.; Broadway Federal Bank; Cedars-Sinai Medical Center; The White House Fellows Commission; the University of Chicago Graduate School Advisory Council. He is also vice chairman of the South Coast Air Quality Management District Brain and Lung Tumor and Air Pollution Foundation.

 

Previously, Davidson was a director of Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles; Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce; Rebuild L.A.; Museum of Contemporary Art; Charles Drew University School of Medicine; Armory Center for the Arts; Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra; the African/American Museum of Art; Big Brothers of Greater Los Angeles; Fulcrum Venture Capital Corporation; Los Angeles Urban League; and the Planning Commission for the City of Pasadena.

 

Among the many honors Mr. Davidson has received are the Man of the Year Award from the March of Dimes, the Bennie Award for Leadership from Morehouse College, the president’s residence at Morehouse College named in his honor, the Father of the Year Award from the American Diabetes Association, the Ronald H. Brown Award , the Raoul Wallenberg Save the Children Award from the Shaare Zedek Medical Center Jerusalem, Black Businessman of the Year from the Los Angeles Chapter of the Black MBA Association and Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year from the National Association of Investment Companies.

 

Mr. Davidson is the retired chairman and chief executive officer of Surface Protection Industries, which he founded in 1978, and which became one of the top African American-owned manufacturing companies in California. Previously, he co-founded and served as vice president of the Urban National Corporation, a private venture capital firm that raised over $10 million for investments into minority-controlled businesses.

 

Mr. Davidson received a B.S. from Morehouse College, earned his MBA from the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business and received an Honorary Doctorate of Laws degree from Morehouse College. Pasadena residents, Mr. Davidson and his wife, Faye, are the parents of three sons: Robert III, John Roderick and Julian.

 

About Art Center Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry, Art Center is the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, providing opportunities for students to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College's 80-year history, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society.

An artistic collaboration between NASAimages.org and Art Center College of Design has given rise to a beautiful, awe-inspiring new web feature designed to appeal to science and art aficionados alike.  

NASAImages.org is drawing on its vast online archive, which contains more than 50 years of NASA-related media, and presenting it to the public in a whole new way.  A series of online exhibitions assembled by leading professionals invited from the fields of science, education, art, entertainment, business, and academia, the new “Guest Showcase” will feature new thematic selections from the NASAImages.org collection each month.  

The inaugural Guest Showcase, entitled Things That Float and accessible online via http://williamsongallery.net/nasaimages, debuted January 18, 2009.  It is the work of Stephen Nowlin, an Art Center College of Design vice president and director of the college’s Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery.

“This has been a unique opportunity, and I am honored to have been invited to join this distinguished project,” says Nowlin. “The NASA Images archive is spectacular, rich in imagery, and exhaustive in depth.  It was a dream assignment.”

For his Guest Showcase, Nowlin created a six-minute long video slideshow with an audio component—the accompaniment of Claude Debussy’s Clair de Lune (Moonlight).

In his curator’s statement, Nowlin says, “As a native Earthling, bred and raised with an awe-threshold heavily influenced by our terra-firma existence, I remain captivated by how big things stuck to the surface down here can hover like floating poetry up there in the blackness of space.”  

In the forward-looking educational world of Art Center, the very definition of design has come to mean multi-disciplinary innovation at the nexus of art and science – design in the service of positive change for humanity.  

“Images can embody persuasive ideas and objects can be tools for solving problems,” says Nowlin, “and when you are able to communicate ideas and overcome problems, you can make change.  Images and objects can be beautiful, but good design is only a very little about decorating the world – it is a very lot about helping to change the world.”

About NASA Images
NASA Images (http://www.nasa.gov) and the Internet Archive (http://www.archive.org), a non-profit digital library based in San Francisco, to bring public access to the largest source of NASA’s image, video, and audio collections in a single, searchable resource.  The site contains everything from classic photos to educational programming and HD video, and is growing all the time as it continues to gain both new and archived media from all of NASA’s centers.

The development of nasaimages.org is intended to promote education and facilitate scholarship in math and the sciences at all levels, and to build general interest and excitement around space exploration, aeronautics, and astronomy.

About the Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery
The Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery at Art Center College of Design has established a national reputation for its ongoing series of exhibitions exploring the boundaries, relationships, and perspectives of art and science.   The invitation from NASA Images comes on the heels of two recent exhibitions:  OBSERVE, a collaboration with the NASA/JPL Spitzer Science Center which brought artists and astronomers together to produce original works of art; and TOOLS, an exhibition about the historical relationship between humans and their tools which drew objects from the domains of art, science, natural and cultural history. For Google links to the Williamson Gallery art/science programs, visit http://xrl.us/gallerylinks.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design (http://www.artcenter.edu) is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. The first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, Art Center provides opportunities for students to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College’s almost 80 years, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society today.

Art Center College of Design has appointed Karen Hofmann—heralded as one of the Most Admired Educators of 2010 by DesignIntelligence—to the position of Department Chair, Product Design, it was announced today by Acting Chief Academic Officer Nik Hafermaas.

In making the announcement, Mr. Hafermaas said, “Karen has proven to be excellent at creating innovative curriculum and defining new strategies that benefit the entire College. Her leadership will help assure Art Center continues its ranking as one of the top schools for product design.”

“As an alumna and longtime faculty member, I am deeply committed to uphold the great legacy and strengths of the Product Design Department at Art Center,” Ms. Hofmann said. “At the same time, I feel a great sense of responsibility to prepare our young designers as creative citizens of the 21st century and will evolve the program to best prepare our students for meaningful careers that will have a positive impact on the world.”

“Karen was chosen from a rich and accomplished international group of applicants,” said a spokesperson for the committee that spearheaded the College’s search for a Product Design Chair. “Her vision and passion displayed a keen sense for the future of product design and the committee believes that she exhibits both a clear and compelling vision for the Department and the leadership qualities necessary to bring them about.”

DesignIntelligence, published by the Design Futures Council, recently named Ms. Hofmann one of the Most Admired Educators of 2010 for exemplifying excellence in design education leadership. The selection was made with extensive input from hundreds of design professionals, academic department heads and students.

For the time being Ms. Hofmann will continue in her role as Director of the Color, Materials and Trends Exploration Laboratory (CMTEL) at the College. Since the lab’s founding in 2006, Ms. Hofmann has worked with founding partners Nokia Corporation and Avery Dennison to develop CMTEL as a College-wide resource, creating a unique educational program around color, materials and trends. Ms. Hofmann also developed DesignStorms, one- to three-day immersive projects in which students, faculty and professionals from participating sponsoring companies—such as Disney, Faurecia, Nestlé, SanDisk and Volkswagen —collaborate and innovate around a material technology or future market opportunity.

An instructor in Art Center’s Industrial Design department for the last eight years, Ms. Hofmann was named Acting Chair of the Product Design Department in 2008. She has been instrumental in developing the department’s strategy and curriculum, integrating new design research processes, forming an industrial design foundation program, promoting sustainable design courses and launching innovative educational models. Her focus in the classroom is teaching design and market research processes and translating that research into concepts. She is also a leading faculty member for the College’s Transdisciplinary Studio projects, identifying and defining vision-casting projects with numerous sponsors including Honda, Johnson Controls, Nestlé, Nokia, Panasonic and Samsung.

Throughout her career, Ms. Hofmann has been instrumental in recognizing and translating relevant social and cultural trends, defining projects and processes that influence advanced initiatives, and inspiring development teams to think different about their product experiences.

Prior to joining Art Center’s faculty, Ms Hofmann served as senior project consultant with o2studio, a design strategy and research consultancy focusing on color, material and trends. Clients included Milliken Automotive, Nokia and Plantronics. She began her career at Johnson Controls, ultimately serving as strategic research manager in the consumer research department of the company’s Automotive Systems Group.

Ms. Hofmann graduated from Art Center in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in product design and holds a bachelors’ degree in psychology from California State University, Northridge in 1990.

Ms. Hofmann assumes the role of Department Chair, Product Design, effective January 1, 2010.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, Calif., Art Center College of Design (artcenter.edu) is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. The first design school to receive the United Nations’ Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, Art Center challenges students through a transdisciplinary curriculum that explores socially responsible, creative and design-based solutions to real-world issues. During the College’s 80 years, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society today.

Art Center College of Design will award two-dozen Public Programs scholarships during the 2009 L.A. Auto Show, it was announced today by Stewart Reed, Chair of the College’s Transportation Design Department.

Art Center will conduct a daily contest during the L.A. Auto Show’s public days from December 4 through 13, 2009, asking entrants to meet design challenges established by the Transportation Design Department. At the conclusion of each day of the show, a jury of Art Center students, faculty and alumni will judge the entries and award one Art Center at Night scholarship and one Saturday High scholarship to the two individuals that display the most aptitude for Transportation Design. Challenge themes will include “Dream Cars,” “Cars of the Future,” and “Public Transit.” The contest is open to those aged 14 to 24 years.

“We are pleased to again partner with the L.A. Auto Show to provide this unique opportunity to inform the public about our Transportation Design program, and to showcase the talented students and successful alumni involved with Art Center,” Mr. Reed said in making the announcement. “Our location in Southern California—near so many advanced automotive design studios as well as companies leading the emerging fields of new mobility and alternative energy—offers distinct advantages, including access to many professional designers who serve as part-time faculty and guest speakers, as well as opportunities for internships.”

Mr. Reed continued, “This year we’re making a concentrated effort to encourage young people—especially those from underserved communities—to think about careers in transportation design and to show them these jobs are attainable. Many of our alumni got their start by taking Art Center at Night and Saturday High classes, and by offering scholarships to these programs we want to give students the stepping stones they need to pursue a formal education.”

In 2009, Art Center College of Design again has a significant presence at the L.A. Auto Show. The Art Center exhibit will feature prominent alumni talking with prospective students and conducting demonstrations throughout the show’s public days. Participating Art Center alumni include, Rodrigo Camus TRAN ’05, Camus Design; Jason Castriota TRAN ’00, Stile Bertone; Jae Min TRAN ’94, Volkswagen; Dave Marek TRAN ’87, Honda; Freeman Thomas TRAN ’83, Ford; Mike Tsay TRAN ’92, Honda; and Franz Von Holzhausen TRAN ’92, Tesla Motors.

“Art Center offers more than an opportunity to draw cool cars. The College taught me to look at the entire spectrum of Transportation Design, from alternative fuels to safety concerns to the innovative use of materials. I learned to question things at Art Center: Does a car need four wheels or a metal body? It can all be improved upon,” said Camus. “Since graduating from Art Center, I’ve designed an electric vehicle for ZAP, automotive interiors for the new Fiat 500 and now I work on an array of industrial design projects in my own international design studio based in Mexico City.”

Mr. Camus continued, “I’ve found plenty of talent and ambition in Mexico, but we simply lack resources to develop those talents. It’s important to me to support Art Center in its efforts to reach people around the world who might not otherwise consider a career in art and design and give them the opportunity to succeed. I would add that Latin Americans bring a unique perspective to the design approach, which in turn gives added value to the vehicles, products and environments they create.”

Current students and faculty, many of whom will be conducting demonstrations themselves, will also staff Art Center’s exhibit and be available to answer questions about their experiences and about the programs available young people. On display will be student and alumni work, including two full-scale vehicles designed by well-known alumni.

Public Programs at Art Center
Art Center’s Public Programs provides people from across Southern California access to exceptional instruction, facilities and networking opportunities in courses that reflect the same high standards, rigor and professional relevance found in the College’s degree programs. Art Center at Night allows adults new to the creative process, as well as art and design professionals, an opportunity to take college-level courses with an eye toward expanding their creative and career opportunities. Saturday High gives high school students (grades 9—12) an opportunity to explore their creativity and learn about career opportunities in the fields of art and design. Art Center’s Public Programs also include Art Center for Kids (grades 4—8) and Design-Based Learning for K-12 educators.

Transportation Design at Art Center
No educational institution has made a greater impact on the automobile industry than Art Center College of Design. Founded in 1948, the Transportation Design program continues to serve as the best educational environment for designers seeking to revolutionize transportation design, from motorcycles, marines and aircrafts, to commercial transport, personal mobility and public transit. By emphasizing key topics such as sustainable mobility and the implications of product life cycle, students not only gain fluency in drawing and modeling skills, but also develop an understanding of things such as vehicle architecture and aerodynamics.

It is estimated that more than half the world’s car designers are Art Center graduates, currently holding top design positions at the studios of Pinanfarina, Ferrari-Maserati, Ford, General Motors, Daimler/Chrysler, BMW, Porsche, Audi, Volvo, Nissan, Aston Martin, Hummer, Mazda, Toyota/Lexus, Volkswagen North America and at independent studios such as Fisker Automotive and Tesla Motors.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design (artcenter.edu) is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. The first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, Art Center challenges students through a transdisciplinary curriculum that explores socially responsible, creative and design-based solutions to real-world issues. During the College's almost 80 years, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society today.

Art Center College of Design will commemorate a historic mural created by artist Keith Haring on the 20th anniversary of his visit to the College and in recognition of World AIDS Day on November 30, it was announced today by Art Center President, Lorne Buchman.  

In 1989, the prolific artist and social activist Keith Haring visited Art Center College of Design and painted an interior mural, which still hangs in the Colleges’ landmark building. Having spent the last few months of his life painting murals at colleges, universities and other educational institutions, Haring was invited to Art Center by renowned interpretative illustrator Phil Hays, who at the time was Chair of the College’s Illustration Department.  Painted over the course of two days, the mural was intended to be a “permanent memorial to members of the art community who have died of AIDS and also serve as a symbol of hope and compassion.” Haring passed away two months later from AIDS-related complications in February 1990.

In making the announcement, Dr. Buchman said, “Keith Haring has had a lasting impact on the art world through the creation of images that have come to symbolize hope, love and endurance. Art Center is fortunate to have a mural of such importance to educate our students and inspire their creativity.”

In recognition of Haring’s lasting contribution to the College and in celebration of World AIDS Day, faculty member Ramone Munoz asked students to take visual themes from the mural and use them in creating posters to educate youth and society at large about safe sex and the tragic loss of life and inestimable talent due to this disease. The posters were created as part of Art Center’s Communication Design 2 class, which examines messaging in different contexts.

The posters will be exhibited throughout the week, beginning on November 30 with a reception honoring the late artist and celebrating World AIDS Day.  Also on view will be a small selection of photographs and archival video footage of Haring.  The College library will display a series of books and articles about Haring and have a special listening station set-up for visitors to hear about the mural in Haring’s own voice—recorded from a lecture he gave at Art Center upon the mural’s completion. As part of the tribute, all attendees are invited to tie ribbons emblazoned with the names of friends and relatives who have died from HIV/AIDS in front of the mural.

Himself an Art Center student at the time, Mr. Munoz said, “Haring was an inspiration to everyone at the College. Even in failing health his energy seemed boundless, he was very generous in sharing his ideas and signing anything students gave him.  Some have referred to Haring’s mural as the heart of Art Center’s Hillside Campus and 20 years later the mural still pulsates with his message of hope that a cure for AIDS will someday be found.”

“Keith was a friend and an inspiration to me at the end of his life,” said Ann Field, current Chair of Art Center’s Illustration Department. “His message of hope and joy in creativity is as fresh today as when he burst onto the scene.”

Observed December 1 each year, World AIDS Day was launched by the United Nations’ Global Program on AIDS (now known as UNAIDS) in 1988 to raise awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection.  In 1997, UNAIDS created the World AIDS Campaign (worldaidscampaign.org) to focus on year-round communications, prevention and education.

*** The Keith Haring tribute reception will take place Monday, November 30 at 6:00 p.m. at Art Center’s James Lemont Fogg Memorial Library, located at 1700 Lida Street in Pasadena, California. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, members of the public may contact the Office of Public Relations at 626.396.2338.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience.  The first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, Art Center challenges students through a transdisciplinary curriculum that explores socially responsible, creative and design-based solutions to real-world issues. During the College's almost 80 years, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society today.

Renowned photographer and director Matthew Rolston will take part in a lively conversation with celebrity journalist Merle Ginsberg at Art Center College of Design, it was announced today by Dennis Keeley, Chair of the College’s Photography and Imaging Department. Serving as a theme throughout the evening will be beautyLIGHT, a spectacular collection of Rolston’s photographs captured from the past 20 years.

 

Widely recognized as one of the leading photographers and directors of his generation, Matthew Rolston’s imagery has helped define today’s aesthetics of celebrity and beauty photography. Whether in print or on television, Rolston’s work truly embodies modern glamour.

 

In making the announcement, Mr. Keeley said, “Mathew is internationally recognized as one of the most noted fashion, beauty and celebrity photographers of the twentieth century. As this twenty first century unfolds, we find him continuing as one of the leaders in photography’s ever greater prominence in media and culture. His continued involvement with Art Center has benefited the Photography and Imaging Department greatly.”

 

Rolston studied illustration, photography and film at Art Center, an institution that he continues to avidly support.  In 1998, he endowed the “Matthew Rolston Scholarship for Photography and Film,” and in 2008, Rolston renewed his support for the scholarship, adding the very special privilege of mentoring its recipients.  In August 2006, Art Center awarded Rolston an honorary doctorate for his contributions to the field of photography.

 

Art Center President Lorne M. Buchman, said, “We seek to provide our students an affordable education and Matthew’s scholarship helps us to meet this important objective.  More than merely providing funds, Matthew’s scholarship and mentorship sends a clear message that he and the College are committed to our students and the promising future that lies ahead of them as professional photographers.”

 

Renowned for his influential lighting techniques, Rolston has helmed award-winning music videos for artists as diverse as Madonna, Janet Jackson, Beyoncé Knowles and even Marilyn Manson, as well as print and television campaigns for a wide variety of internationally recognized brands, including Campari, Bacardi, L’Oreal, Revlon, Esteé Lauder, Clairol, Pantene, Gap and Polo Ralph Lauren.

 

Spanning a spectrum from vampish intrigue to retro glamour, beautyLIGHT offers a unique series of photographic portraits by Matthew Rolston. With painterly skill, Andy Warhol's protégé combines elements of style, staging, light and color to create indelible impressions of some of the world’s most scintillating and talented people, such as Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp, Penelope Cruz, Drew Barrymore and Salma Hayek. Rolston's photographs build a stage for his characters, imbuing them with the iconic power of vintage Hollywood at its peak. His distinctive work has been featured in such leading publications as Interview, Harper's Bazaar and Rolling Stone, among many others.

 

Matthew Rolston will speak at Art Center College of Design on Thursday, October 29 at 7:30 p.m. in the College’s Ahmanson Auditorium, located at 1700 Lida Street in Pasadena, California. Seating for the general public has reached maximum capacity, however journalists may contact the Office of Public Relations at 626.396.2251 to request special access and interview availability.

 

 

 

 

Images for Human Rights: Student Voices, a provocative exhibition exploring young artists’ perspectives on the issues of freedom and human rights, will be on display at the Skirball Cultural Center from October 13, 2009 through March 14, 2010. Organized by Art Center College of Design, this exhibition features more than a dozen large-scale, illustrated posters created by Art Center students. Admission to the exhibition is free to all visitors.
 
The exhibition was designed in 2008 to mark the sixtieth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in Paris in 1948. The historic document arose out of the tragedies of World War II and is modeled after the United States Constitution. Co-written by Eleanor Roosevelt, among other dignitaries, it represents the first global expression of rights to which all human beings are entitled, and has been adopted as a model for state charters around the world.

Images for Human Rights: Student Voices displays fresh interpretations of the declaration’s many principles, encouraging viewers to reflect upon its continuing significance. Taking such declarations as “No one shall be held in slavery or servitude” (Article 4), “No one shall be subjected to torture” (Article 5), or “Everyone has the right to education” (Article 26), the artists were challenged to represent these assertions through visual images. Each poster is accompanied by the text of the article(s) that inspired it, as well as insightful commentary by the student.

Sample works include Sharon Levy’s Sweatshop Sally, which adopts the commercial language of toy product packaging: a doll with a sewing machine appears below the advertising slogan “Collect them all! Over 240 Million Child Laborers World Wide!!” Christopher Cosek grapples with the phenomenon of child warriors in his poster, depicting a soldier, hand-drawn as if by a child, along with the statement “An estimated 300,000 children serve as soldiers worldwide. Some are as young as 8 years old.” Ani Gevorgian’s Right to Bare Arms shows two hands entwined, each a different skin color, to illustrate that “Everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration, without distinction of any kind, such as race” (Article 2), while also addressing the controversial Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Of her work, Gevorgian writes, “There can be no justice when there is discrimination. As artists, we have the tools to make a difference through images.”

Images for Human Rights: Student Voices was developed by a multidisciplinary team of Art Center students in the College’s Illustration Department and developed by Designmatters, Art Center’s social and humanitarian educational initiative. The exhibition is made possible through the generous support of France Los Angeles Exchange (FLAX), a Los Angeles–based cultural organization dedicated to fostering a better understanding of France through public art events that promote cross-cultural learning. The exhibition premiered in the summer of 2008 at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France, and was subsequently presented at Pasadena Central Library.

At the Skirball, Images for Human Rights: Student Voices is presented to complement the exhibitions Road to Freedom: Photographs of the Civil Rights Movement, 1956–1968; Breach of Peace: Photographs of Freedom Riders by Eric Etheridge; and An Idea Called Tomorrow, organized by the California African American Museum (CAAM) and on view both at CAAM and the Skirball. Together these four exhibitions explore issues of freedom, justice, and peace.


Visiting the Skirball
The Skirball Cultural Center is located at 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90049 (exit 405 Freeway at Skirball Ctr Dr). Parking is free. The Skirball is also accessible by Metro Rapid Bus 761. Museum hours: Tuesday–Friday 12:00–5:00 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; closed Mondays and holidays, including November, 26, December 25, and January 1. Admission to Images for Human Rights: Student Voices is free to all visitors. Admission to other exhibitions is as follows: $10 General; $7 Seniors, Full-Time Students, and Children over 12; $5 Children 2–12. Exhibitions are always free to Skirball Members and Children under 2. Museum admission is free to all visitors on Thursdays. For general information, the public may call (310) 440-4500 or visit www.skirball.org. The Skirball is also home to Zeidler’s Café, which serves innovative California cuisine in an elegant setting, and Audrey’s Museum Store which sells books, contemporary art, music, jewelry, and more.

About the Skirball
The Skirball Cultural Center is dedicated to exploring the connections  between 4,000 years of Jewish heritage and the vitality of American democratic ideals. It welcomes and seeks to inspire people of every ethnic and cultural identity. Guided by our respective memories and experiences, together we aspire to build a society in which all of us can feel at home. The Skirball Cultural Center achieves its mission through educational programs that explore literary, visual and performing arts from around the world; through the display and interpretation of its permanent collections and changing exhibitions; through an interactive family destination inspired by the Noah’s Ark story; and through outreach to the community.

The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences has honored Art Center College of Design alumnus Michael Sucsy with six Emmy® Awards, it was announced today by Robert Petersen, Chair of the College’s Graduate Broadcast Cinema Department.

With the most nominations of any other made for television movie this year, Grey Gardens—the first feature film directed by Art Center alumnus Michael Sucsy—is the recipient of six Primetime Emmy® Awards, including Outstanding Made for Television Movie. Grey Gardens tells the story of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ relatives "Big Edie" Beale and her daughter "Little Edie," who forged a unique bond while living in a ramshackle East Hampton mansion.

In making the announcement Mr. Petersen said, “As a first-time filmmaker, Michael’s best picture award, on top of having more nominations than any other television movie, represents a true collaborative filmmaking project. Beyond the individual talents Michael brought to Grey Gardens, the number of talented collaborators an alumnus of the College was able to bring on board his first feature film is inspiring.

“The core of the Graduate Broadcast Cinema program at Art Center has been designed to encourage and support the formation of multiple-discipline filmmaking teams such as Michael’s to develop and create films that go well beyond traditional collaborations” Petersen continued. “We give our students complete creative freedom in development and choice of visual and conceptual content.”

“The Graduate Broadcast Cinema program prepares you in slightly different ways than a traditional film program,” said Mr. Sucsy. “At Art Center, I learned more than the technical aspects of filmmaking—I learned the art of filmmaking, and that really helped me execute my personal vision for Grey Gardens.”

Art Center alumnus Greg Whiteley, producer and director of Resolved, was also recognized by the Academy with two News & Documentary Emmy® nominations, including Outstanding Information Programming (Long Form) and Outstanding Individual Achievement in a Craft: Editing. In Resolved, the fascinating intricacies of high school debate give way to a portrait of the equally complex racial and class divide in American education. Like Mr. Sucsy, Mr. Whiteley’s first major project, the documentary New York Doll, also received critical acclaim and significant award nominations, including its nomination for the Grand Jury Prize at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival.  

About Art Center College of Design Film Graduates
Award-winning Art Center film program graduates are prominent within the entertainment industry as writers, directors, producers, executive producers, directors of photography, production designers, editors and visual effects artists in all areas of theatrical and television film, theatre, commercials, documentary and educational films, and music videos.

Acclaimed graduates include: Roger Avary, Aaron Barnes, Michael Bay, Monte Bramer, Doug Claybourne, Don Burgess. Larry Fong, Valerie Gordon-Johnson, Tom Hammel, Shelly Johnson, Michael Karp, Rolf Kesterman, Farhad Mann, Adam Massey, Ron Osborn, Damon O'Steen, Josh Senter, Jennifer Shainin, Zack Snyder, Michael Sucsy, Tarsem, Randy Walker and Greg Whiteley.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. Renowned for its ties to industry, Art Center is also the first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, providing opportunities for students to develop creative and design-based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College's almost 80 years, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society.

One Colorado’s bi-annual Art + Design Open Market will take place on Sunday, October 4, 2009, 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. The one day event will host more than 100 artists from Art Center College of Design and Pasadena City College selling their work in the central Courtyard and in the surrounding pedestrian alleys. The event is presented in part by KPCC 89.3 FM and Pasadena Now.
 
The Open Market provides a rare opportunity for the public to interact with emerging and established artists from Pasadena’s leading cultural institutions. It is especially notable that any purchases go directly to participating artists, thereby supporting individual careers and artistic expression.  In addition, artists are on hand to interact with the public and discuss the creative process behind their works.  
 
Since its launch in 2003, the Open Market has provided visibility for more than 600 artists, and has served as a destination for thousands of art collectors and appreciators.  Participating institutions include Pasadena City College, which focuses on painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, photography and illustration, and Art Center College of Design, which has a long legacy of graduating artists and designers who have significantly influenced our culture.  Art Center’s participating students, faculty and alumni stem from a variety of the College’s art and design disciplines including fine art, illustration, photography, transportation design, graphics, product design, film and entertainment design.  

PUBLIC: For further information, please visit www.onecolorado.com or call 626.564.1066.

MEDIA: The media is asked to please call Robin Faulk (One Colorado), 626.844.8855, robinfaulk@att.net for photos and/or interviews.

The Pasadena Arts Council (PAC), managing partner of the innovative Art + Ideas Festival, has announced the lineup of activities for the fifth biennial fall festival entitled “Origins.” The festival, which will be held at various venues throughout the city from October 23 through November 9, 2009, is a multi-media collaborative of cutting-edge Pasadena arts, science, and cultural organizations.

“Pasadena is an incredibly rich nexus of arts, culture and science, so collaborating on an idea-based festival comes naturally to the partner institutions,” said Terry LeMoncheck, PAC Executive Director.

This year's Festival includes a full array of theater, dance, music, visual art, poetry, film, interactive workshops and children’s performances, as well as its popular “Ideas” component, a series of discussions and debates hosted by PAC and other partners. The various events are woven together by the Festival's theme, “Origins,” paying homage to Charles Darwin’s 200th birthday.  

“Our theme is about much more than evolution in the strict sense – it’s about exploring the idea of ‘the beginning,’ because as humans we have this need to understand how things started, where they come from,” said LeMoncheck. “Exploring beginnings helps us take a peek into the future as well.”

Highlights of the 2009 Festival include the world premiere of the Theatre @ Boston Court’s God Save Gertrude, a musical examining the origins of political dissent; Family Stories: Sharing a Community’s Legacy at Pasadena Museum of History, inspiring reflection on one’s own family’s origins; and NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope Science Center/One Colorado’s exploration of the origins of the universe including scientific demonstrations, “Ask an Astronomer,” and spectacular cosmic imagery. 

Partner organizations presenting  include: Armory Center for the Arts; Brehm Center at Fuller Theological Seminary; Boston Court Performing Arts Center; Gamble House; Huntington Library; Lineage Dance; One Colorado; Pasadena City College; Pasadena Museum of California Art; Pasadena Museum of History; Pasadena Public Library; Pasadena Symphony; Shumei Arts Council; Spitzer Science Center at Caltech; Williamson Gallery at Art Center College of Design.

A large percentage of the Art + Ideas events will be FREE. Tickets for some events will be sold separately at the venue. Please visit the individual Festival partner websites through our Festival Partners & Programs page for detailed information.

For complete information and a comprehensive list of all events, visit www.artideasfestival.org.

ABOUT PAC: The Pasadena Arts Council is a non-governmental, not-for-profit organization that provides resources, programs and services to artists, arts and cultural organizations, audiences, young people and visitors to Pasadena. The agency offers an independent voice for promoting a vibrant cultural community by facilitating, empowering and advocating for the arts.

Five-time Academy Award nominee and American Society of Cinematographers Lifetime Achievement Award winner Allen Daviau, ASC, has joined Art Center College of Design's undergraduate film department's part-time faculty. Mr. Daviau will be teaching a Master Class in Cinematography.

In making the announcement, Ross LaManna, Chair, Undergraduate Film said, "We are delighted that our students will have this extraordinary opportunity. Having an artist of Allen's caliber teach a master cinematography class is emblematic of what makes the Art Center Film program so unique. We believe visual storytelling skills are taught best by those doing the best work themselves."

Mr. Daviau's credits as Director of Photography include Amblin', E.T. The Extraterrestrial, The Falcon and the Snowman, The Color Purple, Empire of the Sun, Avalon, Bugsy, Fearless, Congo, The Astronaut's Wife, Van Helsing, and many others.

Other honors include a BAFTA Award, two ASC Cinematography Awards, and the Art Directors' Guild Distinguished Career Award.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. The first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, Art Center provides opportunities for students to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College's almost 80 years, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society today.

Separated United Forms, a public art installation commissioned by the City of Pasadena and created by sculptor David Schafer in collaboration with Art Center College of Design and the Norton Simon Museum, was unveiled today at Huntington Pavilion, an outpatient facility being developed by Pacific Medical Buildings on the campus of Huntington Memorial Hospital in Pasadena.

For the commissioned piece, Schafer was granted special access to the Norton Simon Museum's vast collections and given permission, by both the Norton Simon Art Foundation and the Henry Moore Foundation, to appropriate Henry Moore's Reclining Form (1966). Schafer scanned the small, original two-piece marble artwork using digital imaging technology made available by Art Center College of Design, where he served as a faculty member in the Fine Art Department for nearly a decade. He then digitally manipulated the forms by scaling, rotating, superimposing and doubling. The result is Separated United Forms, a major sculptural project that encompasses two large-scale cast bronze sculptures, each measuring over 7' x 12' atop a 20' x 40' concrete platform illuminated at night with eight in-ground luminaries.

Henry Moore (1898-1986) is well known for monumentalizing the abstracted human form for public, outdoor and sited works of art. Working within certain conventions of monumental outdoor sculpture popularized by Moore, Schafer's project also engages a complex set of conceptual issues including appropriation and digital sampling.

The City of Pasadena supports public art as the perfect medium for illustrating the broad range of cultural expression practiced in the Pasadena community. The goal of the Pasadena Public Art Program is to create an accessible collection of contemporary art that celebrates the human spirit and condition, thereby encouraging dialogue, understanding and enjoyment of public art. In support of these efforts, Schafer thoughtfully placed the sculptures in a landscaped setting with park benches, making the site easily accessible by the public.

"I really wanted to engage the community on multiple levels," Schafer said. "I'm interested in the idea that visitors viewing the sculpture at the Huntington Pavilion might be prompted to visit the Norton Simon and study the relationship between sculpture and the human body. Visitors might also consider how the same 3D software and scanning technology used to create 'Separated United Forms' is used at the Huntington Pavilion to analyze medical conditions and at Art Center to create other works of art."

Laurence Dreiband, Chair of the Fine Art Department at Art Center College of Design, said, "David's use of 3D imaging technology in creating his work is an excellent example of how contemporary artists can take advantage of tools developed for industry, and outside typical artistic practice, to expand our ideas of art. Art Center students, through interdisciplinary classes like Digital Constructions, have regular access to this cutting edge technology--something most other art schools can't offer--expanding their personal artistic vision."

"We were intrigued by David Schafer's proposition to pay homage to Moore's piece in the Norton Simon collections," says Norton Simon Museum Chief Curator Carol Togneri. "What a pleasure it has been to watch his work take shape--from its creative inception, to small scale model, to its ultimate setting in the new Huntington Pavilion. The final sculpture is very much Schafer's own, but reflects the artist's respectful reverence and admiration for Moore."

In conjunction with the public art installation, Separated United Forms, a publication is being produced to document the project. The book will feature essays by the artist and noted art critic Christopher Miles, with a technical overview by Jason Pilarski, co-founder of MachineHistories and a faculty member in the Graduate Media Design program at Art Center College of Design. Mitchell Kane, Director of the Fine Art Department at Art Center, is designing the publication with photography by Eric Staudenmaier, an architectural photographer and alumnus of the College.

Appropriating from the vocabulary and motifs of Modernism and an array of idiosyncratic subjects, Schafer works across multiple platforms of production including collaborations with architects, graphic designers, voice actors, digital engineers, fabricators, and sound studios. In addition to several temporary public art projects, his work has been displayed in numerous international solo and group exhibitions, showcased in exhibition catalogs, and written about in over a dozen publications. Schafer was a Professor of Fine Art and the Director of the Sculpture and Installation Program at Art Center College of Design from 1998 to 2007, where he received numerous teaching awards. His other teaching experience includes CalArts, Otis College of Art and Design, School of Visual Arts, Cooper Union, Rutgers University and Parsons the New School for Design, where he is currently an Adjunct Faculty member. Schafer received a B.A. from the University of Missouri, Kansas City and an M.F.A. in Sculpture from the University of Texas, Austin. In 1989, Schafer received an award in Sculpture from the National Endowment for the Arts.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. The first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, Art Center provides opportunities for students to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College's almost 80-year history, Art Center alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society today.

About the Norton Simon Museum
The Norton Simon Museum is known around the world as one of the most remarkable private art collections ever assembled. Over a 30-year period, industrialist Norton Simon (1907-1993) amassed an astonishing collection of European art from the Renaissance to the 20th century, and a stellar collection of South and Southeast Asian art spanning 2,000 years.

About Huntington Pavilion
Pacific Medical Buildings was chosen by Huntington Memorial Hospital to build additional medical office and outpatient services space, including a Breast Center, Cancer Center, Imaging Center, Sleep Center and Ambulatory Surgery Center, providing state-of-the-art healthcare to the Pasadena community. The 190,000-square-foot Huntington Pavilion is the first new outpatient services building to be developed on the hospital's campus in more than 20 years. The multi-level building is a combination of three- and four-story elements featuring twin lobbies and a six-story, 700-space parking structure. The first Huntington Pavilion tenants began seeing patients on June 30, 2009.

About Pacific Medical Buildings
PMB specializes exclusively in the development and management of medical buildings, outpatient facilities and parking structures for hospitals, medical groups and universities. PMB was formed when the senior executives of American Medical Buildings acquired the West Coast division in a management buyout; the newly formed company was named PMB. For more than 37 years, PMB's executives have led the industry in the development and management of medical care buildings, with 75 healthcare facilities constructed to date throughout the Western United States. The firm currently owns and manages more than 30 facilities totaling more than 2.5 million square feet, and has 12 more facilities under development that will total 750,000 square feet with 2,000 structured parking stalls. The San Diego-based firm also has offices in Honolulu; Los Angeles; Phoenix; Vancouver, Washington; Portland, Oregon; and Nevada.

You don’t have to be a full-time student to explore your creativity, hone your skills, or prepare for a new career.  That’s the message of Art Center College of Design’s Open House events this summer.

As a global leader in art and design education for nearly eight decades, Art Center is committed to serving as a creative resource not only for traditionally enrolled students, but for the entire community.

Art Center’s many non-degree educational programs—with classes ranging from digital media to costume design to oil painting—invite students of all ages and backgrounds to express themselves and refine their talents.  And there is no better way to investigate the range of open enrollment classes available to the public at Art Center than through one of its many summer Open House events—casual yet mind-opening opportunities to explore the campus, meet instructors (all of whom are art and design professionals), and chat with current students about their artistic accomplishments.

Saturday High Open House (for Teens)   
On Saturday, August 8, 2009, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and again from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m., Art Center’s “Saturday High” program will welcome high school students, parents and art educators to its informal Open House. All Saturday High classrooms will be open to the public, and a list of classes and maps will be available in the student gallery at the Hillside Campus (1700 Lida Street) and in the Public Programs office on South Campus (950 S. Raymond Avenue).

“I am taking a character creation class using the program Maya and we are learning the basics of character creating [and] texturing, along with other things involving Maya.  My teacher, Ali, is a great modeler and helps us a lot when we do have trouble, and answers all of our questions as quickly as she can,” said Evan, age 16, a student in “3D Character Modeling for Gaming.”

Art Center for Kids Open House
On Sunday, August 9, 2009 at 4:00 p.m., Art Center College of Design will welcome elementary and middle school students, parents and educators to its Hillside Campus and its South Campus for exhibitions of fine art, design, and digital media work created by the summer term children.

“I’ve taken ‘Drawing the Clothed Figure’ fives times,” said Art Center for Kids student Christina, age 12. “I thought I knew all there was to know on that subject.  But I learned a lot more things than I expected, made new friends, and had fun.”

Go Beyond: Art Center at Night’s Annual Open House (for Adults)
On Wednesday, August 12, 2009 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Art Center at Night (ACN), the college's continuing studies program, will host an end-of-term Open House/Fall Registration event on its South Campus for prospective students and invited guests.  This special event will showcase Art Center at Night classes and allow prospective students the opportunity to become better acquainted with the possibilities of an Art Center education.  Attendees can:
 

• Visit ACN classes to see student work, sit in on final critiques and presentations, and gain a firsthand impression of the excellent education and portfolio preparation assistance that Art Center at Night students receive;
• Network with peers who are also interested in art and design; and
• Talk to Art Center at Night staff and selected faculty members.

“Not only was I able to change my career, but [Art Center at Night] has given me the confidence to move from freelancing to doing what I want full-time,” said Deanna Lau-Ino who transitioned from the healthcare industry to a position as a print production designer in Disney’s worldwide technical services department. “I hope I’m also setting a good example for my kids.”

The registration period for Art Center at Night’s fall term is August 10 to September 4, 2009.  Classes begin September 8.  For more information about course offerings and schedules, visit http://www.artcenter.edu/atnight.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design (www.artcenter.edu/) is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. The first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, Art Center provides opportunities for students to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College’s almost 80 years, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society today.

The Board of Trustees of Art Center College of Design announced today that Lorne M. Buchman has been appointed its President and Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Buchman, only the fifth president of Art Center since its founding nearly 80 years ago, will take office in October 2009, succeeding Dr. Frank L. Ellsworth, who has served as Interim President of the College since Fall 2008.

Dr. Buchman was unanimously selected by the Board following the enthusiastic recommendation of a committee of faculty members, students, trustees and staff that conducted an international search over the past ten months.

In making the announcement, Board Chairman John P. Puerner said, "I am confident that Lorne will ensure Art Center continues to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment and is able to maintain its leadership position at the center of excellence and innovation in higher education. Our students' experience will be elevated by his balanced approach to learning."

With a wealth of academic leadership experience, Dr. Buchman's presidency of Art Center marks his return to art and design education. Previously, Dr. Buchman served as Provost, then President of California College of Arts and Crafts. There he spearheaded the 1994 strategic plan that led to the creation of its renowned San Francisco campus, and he was instrumental in the success of the historic capital campaign that made the new facility possible. During his tenure at CCA, he also oversaw significant enrollment growth, launched a major public programs initiative, engaged in bold community service initiatives, and diversified the faculty with several new hires. Most recently, Dr. Buchman served as President of Saybrook Graduate School and Research Center where he led the institution in a plan to transform from a graduate school to a multidisciplinary university. A trained theatre director and scholar, he has also held a number of faculty and administrative positions at the University of California, Berkeley. He is the author of a book on filmic adaptations of Shakespeare's plays.

Upon accepting the position of President and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Buchman said, "I'm thrilled to be joining this extraordinary community, and I look forward to the chance to build on its distinctive and distinguished history. Art Center has always been one of the most highly respected independent colleges of art and design in this country, and I couldn't be happier about this opportunity. This is a fabulous moment in my life."

Dr. Buchman serves as Principal and Founder of Buchman Associates, a private consulting firm he established in 2000 whose focus is identifying philanthropic and private investment sources to develop facilities for non-profit organizations. A principal project of Buchman Associates included his work as Executive Director of the highly acclaimed Ed Roberts Campus in Berkeley, California, an international center dedicated to disability rights and universal access that will be a home for people with disabilities to live independently and without discrimination.

In addition to his work in higher education, Dr. Buchman is actively involved in community service. He has served on the Board of over a dozen organizations, including Haifa University, Youth Enrichment Strategies, San Francisco Art Institute, Redwood Day School, The San Francisco Jewish Museum and the Berkeley Shakespeare Festival. Dr. Buchman earned his Ph.D. from Stanford University and received a B.A. from the University of Toronto. He is married to Rochelle Shapell, an attorney and professor of law. They have four children.

"With representation from students, faculty, alumni, staff and trustees, the search committee represented a true cross-section of the Art Center community," said Robert C. Davidson, Jr., Trustee and Chair of the Presidential Search Committee. "While we considered many outstanding individuals for the position, Lorne emerged as the clear choice to lead Art Center. The entire Art Center community will no doubt benefit from Lorne's deep understanding and appreciation of design and the creative process, and his ability to articulate and implement a strong strategic vision for the College."

Of Dr. Ellsworth's accomplishments, Mr. Puerner said, "Frank has done a remarkable job at moving the College forward during our time of transition and his contributions will have a lasting effect on Art Center. We thank him for his work on behalf of Art Center and wish him continued success in his future endeavors."

About Art Center
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. The first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, Art Center provides opportunities for students to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College's almost 80 years, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society today.

The Armory Center for the Arts, Art Center College of Design, the Pasadena Playhouse and the Pasadena Arts Council have received news that they will be recipients of major grants from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) through the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, signed into law on February 17, 2009. The funding is to support the preservation of jobs that are threatened by declines in philanthropic and other support during the current economic downturn.

Of 631 arts agencies to receive this funding nationally, 99 California-based organizations have been designated as recipients, and four in Pasadena. The Armory Center for the Arts will receive $50,000 in the Visual Arts category; Art Center College of Design will receive $50,000 in the Design category; Pasadena Playhouse will receive $50,000 for Theater, and Pasadena Arts Council will receive $25,000 in the Local Arts Agencies category.“I am so pleased that the Pasadena Playhouse is among the esteemed arts institutions that have been chosen for this special recognition and support from the NEA,” notes Playhouse Artistic Director Sheldon Epps. “Beyond the much-appreciated financial assistance that this grant brings our way, it also recognizes the vitality of the work that is on our stage as well as all of the programs that we do to serve our community. This is an exciting time for the Playhouse because of the strength of our programming, as well as the wonderful addition of Stephen Eich to our staff as Executive Director. The NEA grants are one of the sure signs that the arts in Pasadena are being recognized and rewarded for all of our achievements.”

For media queries about the NEA Recovery grants, visit www.nea.gov/recovery, or contact Victoria Hutter at 202-682-5692 or hutterv@arts.gov.

The Pasadena Arts Council is a non-governmental, not-for-profit organization formed in 1964 to provide resources, programs and services to artists, arts and cultural organizations, audiences, young people and visitors to Pasadena. The agency provides an independent voice for promoting a vibrant cultural community by facilitating, empowering and advocating for the arts. For more information about PAC, call 626-793-8171 or visit www.pasadenaartscouncil.org.

It's not just about cars anymore. This year, Art Center College of Design's annual Car Classic event will move beyond the automobile to showcase the best of all forms of transportation that push the boundaries of design.

The world's top transportation designers, collectors and enthusiasts will gather Sunday, July 19, 2009 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Art Center's Hillside Campus at 1700 Lida Street in Pasadena to peek into the past as well as view the work of the next generation of transportation visionaries.

The theme of Car Classic '09, "By Air, Land and Sea," invites participants to explore the historic, fruitful relationship between aircraft, watercraft and automotive design, and reflects the broadening scope of Art Center's Department of Transportation Design, which has been graduating leaders in the field for 60 years.

The daylong exhibition will feature more than 100 rare and exotic vehicles, including classic, sports, and custom cars, hot rods, motorcycles, aircraft, and watercraft.

Exhibit Highlights
To kick off the event, at 10:00 a.m. the crowd will be treated to a flyover by aircraft designed by world-renowned aerospace engineer Burt Rutan, who is speaking later in the day. Two more Rutan aircraft--a Vari EZ and a Long EZ-- as well as the black A-Star helicopter used in the television series 24--will be temporarily installed in the Sculpture Garden. Attendees will enjoy additional flyovers throughout the day, including one by Formula One Air Racing champion Nemesis NXT.

Other exciting vehicles on display will include:

• A GM Ultralite concept car designed by Burt Rutan;
• A "Fins and Wings" corral including the original Barris-designed Batmobile and GM Firebird III concept car;
• Amphibious vehicles to include a 1967 Amphicar and a 1944 VW Schwimmwagen;
• Ed "Big Daddy" Roth's flying Rotar car;
• "TV" Tommy Ivo presenting his legendary Barnstormer drag racer;
• A Raymond Loewy exhibit including a 1963 Avanti, a 1960 19-foot Dorsett San Juan Cabin Cruiser, and large-scale models of Loewy's designs for Air Force One, a Pennsylvania Railroad locomotive and a 1950 Greyhound Scenicruiser;
• Rare and exotic motorcycles including a 1928 BMW and a 1956 BMW with sidecar, custom bikes, and the debut of the Polaris "Core" concept bike;
• The unveiling of Blastolene Brothers' new hot rod based on a full-size Peterbilt tractor; and
• Ten rare microcars including Messershmitts, Goggomobiles and a Vespa

Speaker Highlights
The only thing more inspiring than seeing the vehicles may be hearing from the people behind them. Burt Rutan, designer of the record-breaking aircraft Voyager and SpaceShipOne and winner of the 2004 Ansari X-Prize, will deliver the keynote address at Car Classic '09. Rutan is currently preparing to open the doors for sub-orbital space tourism with the launch of the Virgin Galactic spaceline with Sir Richard Branson, and is scheduled to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from Art Center and General Motors Design at the event. Mike Melvill, who piloted SpaceShipOne to win the X-Prize, will be in attendance.

In the afternoon, KABC-TV automotive reporter Dave Kunz will moderate a panel of Art Center graduates who have attained great success designing motorcycles, yachts and aircraft. In addition to leading the automotive studios of Pininfarina, Ferrari-Maserati, Ford, General Motors, DaimlerChrysler, BMW, Porsche, Audi, Volvo, Nissan, Aston Martin, Mazda, Toyota/Lexus and Volkswagen North America, Art Center alumni also currently head design teams at Harley Davidson, BMW Motorcycle, Aprilia Motorcycles, MV Augusta Motorcycles, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Polaris, Teague, Gulfstream Aerospace, Bombardier, Cessna Aircraft, ICON Aircraft, Lear Jet, Tiara Yachts, Bayliner Boats and Glade Johnson Yacht Design, among others. Alumni on the panel will share examples of their award-winning work and discuss design challenges unique to their industries.

Barry Meguiar, host of Speed Channel's Car Crazy, will once again emcee the awards ceremony, where twelve honors will be presented to vehicles of exceptional design. Awards include seven Design Showcase Awards, three Designers' Choice Awards judged by a stellar panel of professional automotive designers, a Students' Choice Award judged by a team of Art Center's top Transportation Design students, and a People's Choice Award judged by all in attendance.

Car Classic '09 tickets are $60 at the door or $50 online at the Car Classic website. Photographs, press and award information from past years' Car Classic events are available at the Car Classic website.

About Art Center College of Design
Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, Art Center College of Design is a global leader in art and design education. Art Center offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide variety of art and design disciplines, as well as public programs for all ages and levels of experience. The first design school to receive the United Nations' Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status, Art Center provides opportunities for students to create design-based solutions for humanitarian and non-profit agencies around the world. During the College's almost 80 years, Art Center's alumni have had a profound impact on popular culture, the way we live, and important issues in our society today.

This summer, three institutions join their efforts to celebrate a love of reading and the visual aesthetics surrounding the very human act of reading the written word. Art Center College of Design will launch this endeavor with an exhibition of the photographic work of Andre Kertesz. The Armory Center for the Arts will offer children art-making experiences that explore reading. The Pasadena Public Library will feature a photography contest for teens, along with their summer reading club and Try-It @ Your Library camps for teens. In three of the camps, teens will learn and perfect their photography skills.

In its most basic sense, the act of reading remains the same today as it was a century ago. But there are aspects of reading that are unique to this century, to this specific generation and this particular time and space. Through computers, the Internet and other electronic media, humans are reading and acquiring information in ways never imagined 50 years ago, let alone one or two centuries ago. Information, ideas, messages, facts and all manner of vital communication is presented in a written format without ever coming into contact with a human hand. Art Center, the Armory, and the Pasadena Public Library have come together to explore various aspects of reading and what it looked like in the past, what it looks like today, and how reading may possibly manifest in the future.

Andre Kertesz: On Reading
June 26 - August 23, 2009
Andre Kertesz: On Reading is a collection of 104 gelatin-silver photographs by this significant and influential photographer, taken over a 50-year period, beginning in 1925. On view in the Alyce de Roulet Williamson Gallery at Art Center College of Design, the exhibition highlights Kertesz' signature style of visual poetry and choreography in everyday life. By capturing individuals immersed in the act of reading in a variety of settings--parks, cafes, libraries, rooftops, backstage, street corners, trains, and bookstands--Kertesz uses the activity of reading as a constant motif for his narrative, which weaves in and out of public and private spaces. These observations form an engaging, and often amusing, study of the universal and captivating power of reading. Gallery hours are Tuesday-Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; and Friday, noon-9 p.m. Williamson Gallery.

Armory Summer Art Classes
July 6 - September 4, 2009
The act of reading often takes us to a visual place, a place we can imagine, visualize and picture. In this way, reading and art share a symbiotic relationship. The Armory's summer studio program offers classes where reading and art come together. Themed classes such as Building Stories for ages 4-5, Storybook Lands for ages 4-5, and Bring Stories to Life for ages 6-9 offer students the experience to combine reading, drama and art while expanding their imaginations through creativity and exploration. Armory Center for the Arts.

Reading in the 21st Century: Photography Contest for Teens!
July 1 - July 22, 2009
Express yourself through the lens of a camera on the subject of "Reading in the 21st Century." Entries will be accepted at all Pasadena Public Library sites July 1 - July 22. Winners will be notified by August 1. Prizes will be awarded: First Prize is $100, Second Prize is $50, Third Prize is $25, and Honorable Mentions receive a $5.00 gift card. Winning entries and Honorable Mentions will be on exhibit at the Central Library during the month of August 2009. Pasadena Public Library.

Andre Kertesz: On Reading is organized by The Museum of Contemporary Photography, Columbia College, Chicago. The exhibition tour is organized by Curatorial Assistance, Pasadena, California.