The prairie’s only art, craft and design university is now one of its oldest post-secondary institutions, but the future is where the Calgary school is focused.
Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts), has officially begun its centennial celebration and welcomed new school President and CEO, Dr. Janis Goldie. Goldie, who was previously the school’s dean of academic programming, said that as the only university of its kind on the prairies and one of four in Canada, AUArts is a remarkable, important institution.
“We are quite a special organization, because fine arts, design and craft is really all we do. We’ve had over 14,000 graduates in 100 years of history, and many of our graduates and even our faculty have gone on to win impressive awards like Governor General awards, as well as really made a mark on the arts and culture industry,” she said.
“It is truly remarkable to acknowledge that we are the third-oldest post-secondary institution in the entire province. That’s quite a remarkable feat, for such a small institution.”
For the past century, but specifically since its separation from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in 1985, AUArts has prepared generations of artists, designers and innovators who’ve contributed to Alberta’s cultural and economic vitality, Myles McDougall, MLA and Minister of Advanced Education said in an AUArts-issued release.
“Congratulations to Alberta University of the Arts on reaching this remarkable centennial milestone, and to Dr. Janis Goldie on her installation as President and CEO,” his statement read.
“Alberta’s government looks forward to supporting AUArts as it builds on this legacy and charts its next century of impact.”
Being one of the few art, craft, and design universities is not something the school takes lightly. Goldie said that often, the importance and impact of the school go unrecognized.
“Our faculty are world-class instructors, our facilities are also one of the best in the country. We have a 300,000 square foot dedicated art, craft and design studio space and we really make sure that our students have access to top-of-the-line equipment and resources that they need,” she said.
“Alongside that, we want to make sure our students have a wonderful experience while they’re here and we are focused on quality educational experience. For a century, we’ve trained artists and craftspeople and designers that really have challenged conventions and shaped cultural life in the province.”
Moving forward as an art community
Throughout the 100th year celebration, Goldie said it’s very important for the school to honour its alumni. The school plans on announcing programs and partnerships that will benefit alumni, current students and future students alike.
“We’re ensuring that we celebrate the community partners that really matter to the institution. We are a public institution and our goal is to serve the public. That means our students, and it also means the community of Calgary and Alberta,” she said.
“We really want to ensure that we’re creating an open and welcoming space and that’s actually the most important goal of the centennial is reminding ourselves and the general public that we are here for them, that’s really what has resulted in 100 years of history.”
During this centennial year, the school is going to be updating its strategic plan, something they hope to receive as much public input as possible.
“We’re really encouraging community members to be part of those conversations and that consultation across the board, right from public to alumni and faculty, students, staff and arts and culture leaders, anyone who’s working tangentially in the art world,” Goldie said.
“We really hope people are able to come in and tell us what they imagine for the next 100 years, because we see this as a joint project.”
