University of Arkansas breaks ground on final phase of Windgate Art and Design District

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Officials announced that construction is underway on the final building in the University of Arkansas’ Windgate Art and Design District.

The decision was celebrated by a groundbreaking ceremony announcing the start of construction.

University of Arkansas Provost Terry Martin, Fulbright College Dean Brian E. Raines, School of Art Director Rachel Debuque, and other officials spoke at the event held on the terrace of the existing Studio and Design Center.

Officials said that the new facility will house public galleries, collaborative workspaces, and foundational programs for first-year students studying art education, studio art, and graphic design.

Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects and Arkansas-based Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects designed the building in coordination with university stakeholders.

The project continues years of growth for the School of Art, which received a $40 million gift from the Windgate Foundation in 2017 to create the district, followed by another $30 million grant in 2021 to complete it. The ceremony recognized major contributions from the Windgate Foundation, as well as donors Jeremy and Andrea Wilson and Brad and Jodie Goss, officials said.

School of Art leaders say the expanded district will help grow outreach, programming, and public-facing exhibitions for the Fayetteville and greater Arkansas community.

The university officials stated that the new building will also support partnerships with institutions such as Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.For more information, visit ART.UARK.edu.