Widgets Magazine
  • Oklahoma Contemporary Museum submits design plans for downtown campus

    Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center has taken the first formal step to move it's facility from the fairgrounds to a new location just north of Automobile Alley near downtown Oklahoma City.



    The group and their architect Rand Elliott have submitted detailed plans to obtain the required certificate of approval from the Downtown Design Review Committee.

    The 4.6 acre campus at NW 12th and Broadway would feature a new 51,000 square foot building, a renovated 10,000 square foot structure and a large amount of outdoor space. They also hope to incorporate bordering Campbell Park in various ways.


    The Kirkpatrick Family Fund owns the underlying property and is planning to execute a long-term ground lease to the arts group.

    Oklahoma contemporary revealed preliminary plans in June of last year, at which time it launched a capital campaign to raise funds for the new campus.

    The modern main building will will house the OK Contemporary offices, art galleries, an art storage area, classrooms, a performance space and a ballet rehearsal studio.


    There will be no demolition apart from a parking lot on the west side of the site.

    Elliott's “folding light” design incorporates metal panels and sharp angles which the architect believes will be the northern gateway to downtown.

    Unlike traditional museums, Oklahoma Contemporary does not collect art but rather focuses on visual and performing arts education for youth, teens and adults.

    The group commissioned a study in 2011 that found their mission could better be served by relocating to an area closer to downtown.

    The plans will be considered by the review committee on July 21st.



























Single Sign On provided by vBSSO