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UIW Dedicates New Arts Building For Ceramics & Sculpture

As part of a larger strategy to build new arts facilities at the University of the Incarnate Word, a new ceramics and sculpture studio was dedicated Tuesday.

UIW President Louis Agnese explained at the unveiling how the Ruth Eilene Sullivan Ceramic and Sculpture Studio signals a renewed commitment to the arts.

"We wouldn't be spending $16 million at the corner of Broadway and Hildebrand on all of our programs on music and art if we were not focused on that area," Agnese said.

In addition to the Ceramic and Sculpture Studio, construction has begun on the Music Building and plans are in the works for the renovation of the Fine Arts Auditorium and the Fine Arts Building. Both projects are expected to be completed in July of next year.

"Art is not important because of all the million dollar paintings hanging in museums," said Assistant Art Professor James Borders, who helped design the new building. "What makes it important is that it keeps our humanity alive."

The UIW Ceramic and Sculpture Studio is located between the university’s athletic fields, a decision that Agnese said was intentional.

"People think I'm crazy, but I wanted to show the connection between the arts and athletics. And it's all part of a well-rounded education," Agnese said.

Completed student art projects from the new studio will be displayed at UIW locations around San Antonio.

Jack Morgan can be reached at jack@tpr.org and on Twitter at @JackMorganii