Let the countdown begin: Fitzhenry Studios and Atrium beginning to take shape
Full speed ahead on the Fitzhenry Studios and Atrium. From left to right: Cassandra Ferguson, a student artist at McMaster; Judy Major-Girardin, associate professor, School of the Arts; Patrick Deane, McMaster president and vice-chancellor; Robert Fitzhenry, alumnus and project benefactor; Ken Cruikshank, dean, Faculty of Humanities; Mary Williams, vice-president, University Advancement.
Call it the first work of art produced at the Dr. Robert & Andrée Rhéaume Fitzhenry Studios and Atrium — Shovels Meeting Earth (mixed media, 2014).
On Monday, ground was broken at a facility that will reinvigorate and revolutionize McMaster’s fine arts community.
Once complete in early 2015, the atrium will increase existing classroom, studio and display areas by more than 1,700 square feet. The versatile space will also function as a reception area, with a stunning glass façade rising above Stearn Drive.
“To say this project is close to my heart would be an understatement at best,” said McMaster President Patrick Deane. “We’re celebrating today the beginning of the real work, and we’re also celebrating in anticipation of the future.”
The project was made possible thanks to a $3 million gift from alumnus Robert Fitzhenry — the largest ever donation to McMaster’s Fine Arts program. Fitzhenry made the gift in honour of his late wife, Andrée, during a ceremony last November. Andrée, who passed away in February, 2013, continues to serve as inspiration for those involved in the planning and construction process.
“This project will add to the already formidable Fitzhenry legacy at McMaster,” added Deane. “Andrée was an exceptionally curious and interesting woman, and this new facility will help to amplify that spirit of curiosity among McMaster students.”
Ken Cruikshank, dean of the Faculty of Humanities, described the atrium as a major asset for the entire University. Cruikshank will begin his new five-year term as dean on July 1, and will help oversee the space during its formative years.
“This is the single most powerful learning tool the School of the Arts has ever had. It has the potential to redefine horizons for the Faculty of Humanities,” said Cruikshank. “It will be a new platform to engage both the campus and local community.”
McMaster’s Bachelor of Fine Arts program is already one of the most innovative and progressive of its kind in Canada. With a focus on sustainable art practices and regular collaboration with other faculties and departments, students can also benefit from world-class resources, instruction and gallery space at the nearby McMaster Museum of Art. The program is also one of just three in Ontario to offer a working foundry to students.
The new atrium will stand at one of the University’s busiest intersections, at the corner of Stearn Drive and Michell Crescent near the bustling David Braley Athletic Centre and several campus residence buildings. Students, faculty and alumni have been actively involved in the facility’s planning since day one, and took part in a design charrette in February to help architects envision the perfect space.
A member of the Class of 1954, Robert Fitzhenry has been a longtime supporter of the University. Over the years he has invested in a wide variety of campus priorities and resources, including the Robert Fitzhenry Specialized Rehabilitation and Exercise Lab, the Robert E. Fitzhenry Vector Facility, Ron Joyce Stadium and the McMaster Centre for Dance and Performance.
