Saint Francis University Secures $130K for Visual Arts Gallery and Technology Upgrades

Marie Young, University Communications & Marketing | 05/20/2024

Saint Francis University is thrilled to announce the receipt of two generous grants totaling $130,000 to enhance its newly opened Connors Family Fine Arts Center. These funds, provided by the George I. Alden Trust and the A. J. and Sigismunda Palumbo Charitable Trust, will transform the space into a cutting-edge hub for digital and traditional art exploration.

The grants will support the creation of a Visual Arts Studio, complete with a digital/traditional art gallery. This innovative space will integrate a Mac lab, an iPad lending library, and permanent iPads for displaying video and digital art. The gallery will also feature a sophisticated hanging system to showcase 2D works.

Students will benefit from advanced tools like Procreate and other software, as well as upgraded studio furniture, including new easels, tables, and stools. Additionally, the Resinski Black Box Theatre, housed within the Connors Center, will be equipped with 3D projectors, enabling students to craft immersive 3D art experiences and create unique backdrops for performances and productions.

“These grants are a game-changer for our fine arts programs, expanding our capabilities and offering students new opportunities to explore and showcase their creativity. Whether through video, digital art, or traditional media, our students will be empowered to push boundaries and celebrate their achievements in innovative ways.”

The gallery system is already installed, and faculty anticipate that the new technology will be ready for student use by the fall semester.

About the Connors Family Fine Arts Center

The Connors Family Fine Arts Center, located at 181 St. Catherine Street, officially opened on April 18 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The center is home to:

  • The Resinski Fine Arts Theatre
  • The Visual Arts Studio
  • A large practice room for SFU Bands, Music Facilitation, Group Guitar, and other courses
  • Two private practice rooms for individual lessons in voice, piano, and guitar
  • A Green Room, Costume Shop, and dressing rooms to support theatre offerings and visiting performers

About Fine Arts at SFU

The Center for Fine Arts offers a range of programs, including minors in Fine Arts, Music and Wellness, Theatre and Visual Arts. Students can participate in ensembles and productions while earning college credits, including:

  • Marching/Pep Band
  • Theatre Productions
  • Chorus
  • World Drumming Ensemble

Individual lessons are also available in guitar, voice, piano, and hand drumming, allowing students to hone their musical skills.

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Fine Arts
Advancement