The $1.2 billion arts and cultural industries in New Mexico continue to play a critical role during the current economic downturn. Tamarind Institute at the University of New Mexico takes its part in bolstering the economy while advancing the university’s green initiatives through construction of its new home at 2500 Central Ave. SE. The groundbreaking takes place on Friday, June 26 at 4 p.m.
For nearly 40 years Tamarind has occupied an unobtrusive, 9,000 square foot space at 108-110 Cornell SE, south of Gyros and the Frontier. Tamarind’s new location, previously UNM’s Architecture & Planning Annex, will increase Tamarind’s visibility to the community, provide more space for educational programming, and improve health and safety standards. The new 14,000 square foot building is expected to be completed in spring 2010, in time for Tamarind’s 50th anniversary events.
The new building, designed by architect Devendra Contractor, will be LEED certified Silver and consists of both renovation and new construction. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, provides a suite of standards for environmentally sustainable construction. The new structure includes a number of energy efficient design features, usage of recycled materials, and a storm water collection system. New construction consists of an elevator shaft, third story artist's residence and courtyard. Also included in the project are a new ventilation system, and temperature and humidity control which will provide a safer environment and protect Tamarind’s significant print collection.
Tamarind’s capital campaign was kicked off in 2006 with a significant commitment from First Community Bank. Other support followed from the New Mexico legislature, and local businesses and organizations such as Charter Bank, Thaw Charitable Trust and the McCune Foundation.
Tamarind Institute, a division of the College of Fine Arts at UNM, is a nonprofit center for fine art lithography that trains master printers and houses a professional collaborative studio for artists. Founded in 1960 in Los Angeles, Tamarind played a significant role in reviving the art of lithography in the United States and continues to provide professional training and publishing opportunities worldwide. Tamarind Institute is recognized internationally for its contributions to the growth of contemporary printmaking around the world.
Following the groundbreaking ceremony on Friday, June 26, 4 p.m. at 2500 Central Ave. SE., a reception will be held in the Tamarind gallery at the current location, 110 Cornell Drive SE. The public is invited to attend. For more information, call (505) 277-3901, e-mail tamarind@unm.edu or visit: Tamarind Institute.
Media Contact: Shelly Smith, (505) 277-3792; e-mail: sjsmith@unm.edu
Posted by sari at June 12, 2009 04:19 PM