Ribbon-cutting scheduled to launch unique Facility for Arts Research
Traditional artists, digital designers and scientific researchers will learn and think together in a former research laboratory that will now house one of Florida State University's most creative interdisciplinary endeavors.
The Facility for Arts Research (FAR) — a 22,500-square-foot facility nestled on 5 acres in northwest Tallahassee — is the result of a new initiative led by the FSU College of Visual Arts, Theatre and Dance that is perhaps the first of its kind in the nation. FAR will provide a unique, interdisciplinary research environment for artists, designers and others who may fall between creative fields, including scientists and engineers.
Florida State University President Eric J. Barron and Vice President for Research Kirby W. Kemper are scheduled to preside over ribbon-cutting ceremonies at the facility's grand opening. The event will take place:
THURSDAY, DEC. 8
2 P.M.
3216 SESSIONS ROAD
TALLAHASSEE, FLA.
The sprawling brick building, previously home to a cancer-drug research facility, features space for graduate and undergraduate classes and is equipped with a warren of laboratories. It also houses a seminar room named for Kemper, who recently announced his retirement and is widely renowned for his passionate support of the arts. The building also is home to the 3D Z Printer 450, a state-of-the-art, three-dimensional printer that can print whole objects in their entirety, including tools.
Directions from downtown Tallahassee:
Travel north on U.S. Highway 27 (North Monroe Street) heading toward Interstate 10. Approximately 0.7 miles after passing the I-10 interchange, turn left onto Sessions Street, which becomes Sessions Road. The FAR building will be on the right.
For more information, contact Chad Eby of the FSU College of Visual Arts, Theatre and Dance at (850) 644-7810 or ceby@fsu.edu, or Elizabeth Bettendorf of the Office of News and Research Communications at (850) 644-5929 or ebettendorf@fsu.edu.