RIT Celebrates Centennial for Art, Design and Photography Programs

The test of time is a common measure of success. In that spirit, Rochester Institute of Technology is in the midst of a yearlong celebration saluting several of its long-standing programs.

The 2002-03 academic year marks a pair of important milestones within RIT’s College of Imaging Arts and Sciences. It’s been100 years since the creation of a fine arts department, which served as the origin for RIT’s School of Art and School of Design. Within that same period, the first photography class was introduced-the seed that eventually germinated into the School of Photographic Arts and Sciences.

"We have a great story to tell," says Joan Stone, dean of RIT’s College of Imaging Arts and Sciences. "By commemorating these milestones, there’s an opportunity to assure support for future programs within our college. It’s an opportunity we simply can’t miss."

This year, the college is sponsoring a series of centennial events. Activities include various art, design and photographic exhibitions on campus at SPAS Gallery and Bevier Gallery, and at Gallery r on Park Ave.

Highlighting events for the School of Design will be a visit by world-renowned designer Massimo Vignelli, co-founder and president of Vignelli Associates. He will be granted an honorary doctorate of fine arts during a special presentation on Nov. 8 in RIT’s Webb Auditorium.

"Massimo Vignelli has dedicated his efforts to helping people understand the important role that design plays in business and life," explains Nancy Ciolek, RIT associate professor of design. "He has given freely of his time and knowledge to assist design students by lecturing and holding workshops at numerous schools and universities, including RIT."

An exhibition of Vignelli’s work, Oct. 25-Nov. 20 in RIT’s Bevier Gallery, will accompany his visit.

School of Art alumni will be welcomed back to campus Dec. 6-8 for a weekend of events. Those attending will be treated to a banquet, studio tours, a student art sale and a pair of exhibitions featuring artwork by alumni and past faculty members.

In spring, the School of Photographic Arts and Sciences will take center stage during a salute to 100 years of photography. Events include a weekend celebration for photo alumni and a special exhibit of images spanning the century.

To further enhance the yearlong celebration, annual CIAS events will be incorporated within the centennial theme, including the Scholastic Art Awards and Exhibition in February and student honors shows planned throughout the spring.