Art museum

Name of concept: Art museum

Overview of idea:

The arts play a significant role in the life of RIT.  RIT needs to have a facility where people can visit all of the collections that may be at the institute.  This facility should concentrate on those areas that are presently in the School of American Craftsmen.  Emphasis could be placed on pieces created by our alumni.  We certainly have the land where such a facility could be constructed.  This facility would also be a place where individuals could make contributions of works of art.

How this idea leverages current areas of RIT expertise:

The faculty of SAC would be instrumental in the creation of such a facility.  We have such outstanding staff that would give the necessary direction.

Identify the main RIT on-campus champion(s) for this idea:

The SAC staff and students as well as the library staff would be most supportative.

Identify additional on-campus champions willing to collaborate with this individual and take a lead role in driving the idea:

Bob Baker of NTID

Is there potential off-campus advocacy and support for the idea?

Yes

Identify the potential off-campus individual, organization, company or government entity advocate(s):

Alumni of SAC

Are you aware of another university that is working on a similar idea?

Many universities already have art museums...Harvard, U of R, etc.

Explain how you envision this idea advancing RIT's national or global stature in an important or emerging field:

Such a facility would give emphasis to the contributions made by SAC and its graduates

Explain why you believe RIT has a unique opportunity or an ability to differentiate itself through this idea:

The history of SAC lends itself to the establishment of such a facility.  Owning pieces of art work would also be made available on loan to many other colleges, universities and existing public art museums.  This is a wonderful way for RIT to continue to receive positive publicity.