Introduction
Cornish College of the Arts is a prestigious and well-respected institution of higher learning that has been providing exceptional arts education since 1914. Situated in the heart of Seattle, this institution is known for its dedication to providing students with a creative and supportive environment in which to explore and develop their artistic talents. In this blog post, we will delve into some fun facts about Cornish College of the Arts that you may not have known before.
Fun facts about Cornish College of the Arts
The History of Cornish College of the Arts
Cornish College of the Arts has a rich history that dates back over 100 years. It was founded in 1914 by Nellie Cornish, a visionary educator who believed in the power of the arts to transform people’s lives. Originally known as the Cornish School of Music, this institution was dedicated to providing students with a comprehensive education in music, dance, and drama.
Over the years, Cornish College of the Arts has expanded its programs to include a wide range of visual and performing arts disciplines. Today, the college offers degree programs in music, dance, theater, performance production, and visual arts, as well as a variety of community education programs.
The Famous Alumni of Cornish College of the Arts
Cornish College of the Arts has produced many famous alumni over the years. These individuals have gone on to achieve great success in their respective fields, making significant contributions to the arts and culture of our society.
One of the most famous alumni of Cornish College of the Arts is the late Merce Cunningham, who was a pioneering choreographer and dancer. Cunningham attended the Cornish School of Music in the 1930s, where he studied with renowned dance instructor Martha Graham. He went on to establish his own dance company and became known for his avant-garde choreography and collaborations with contemporary artists.
Another notable alumni is Jimi Hendrix, who attended the college briefly in the early 1960s. Although he did not complete his studies at Cornish, Hendrix is known to have taken classes in music theory and composition, which undoubtedly contributed to his development as a musician.
Other famous alumni of Cornish College of the Arts include actress Ginnifer Goodwin, musician Macklemore, and artist Dale Chihuly.
The Campus and Facilities of Cornish College of the Arts
Cornish College of the Arts is located in the heart of Seattle’s vibrant Capitol Hill neighborhood. The campus is comprised of a variety of buildings and facilities that are dedicated to the arts, including performance spaces, studios, classrooms, and galleries.
One of the most notable buildings on the Cornish campus is the Cornish Playhouse at Seattle Center. This historic building was originally constructed as the home of the Seattle Repertory Theater in the 1920s, but it was later acquired by Cornish College of the Arts and renovated to serve as a performance venue. Today, the Cornish Playhouse is home to a variety of theater, dance, and music performances throughout the year.
In addition to the Cornish Playhouse, the campus also includes the Raisbeck Performance Hall, which is a state-of-the-art performance venue that can accommodate up to 528 people. The hall is equipped with advanced lighting and sound systems, making it an ideal space for music, dance, and theater performances.
The Cornish campus also includes a variety of studio spaces and classrooms that are dedicated to the visual arts. These spaces are equipped with a range of tools and equipment that allow students to explore a variety of artistic mediums, from drawing and painting to sculpture and printmaking.
The Innovative Curriculum at Cornish College of the Arts
Cornish College of the Arts is known for its innovative curriculum, which is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the arts while also encouraging them to explore their individual interests and passions. The college offers a range of degree programs in music, dance, theater, performance production, and visual arts, as well as a variety of community education programs.
One unique aspect of the curriculum at Cornish College of the Arts is the emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration. Students are encouraged to work across disciplines, exploring the connections between music, dance, theater, and the visual arts. This approach fosters a spirit of creativity and experimentation, allowing students to develop their own unique artistic voices.
Another innovative aspect of the curriculum is the focus on performance and exhibition. Throughout their studies, students have numerous opportunities to showcase their work in a variety of performance and exhibition spaces on and off campus. This not only provides valuable real-world experience but also helps to build students’ confidence and professionalism.
The Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Cornish College of the Arts
Cornish College of the Arts is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of its operations. The college believes that a diverse and inclusive community is essential to fostering creativity, innovation, and excellence in the arts.
To support this commitment, Cornish has developed a range of initiatives and programs designed to promote diversity and equity on campus. This includes the appointment of a Chief Diversity Officer, who is responsible for overseeing the college’s diversity and inclusion efforts, as well as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force, which is tasked with developing and implementing initiatives to promote diversity and equity across campus.
In addition to these efforts, Cornish College of the Arts also offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support students from diverse backgrounds. This includes the Diversity Scholarship, which is awarded to students who have demonstrated a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the arts.
Conclusion
Cornish College of the Arts is a unique and innovative institution that is dedicated to providing students with a comprehensive education in the arts. From its rich history and famous alumni to its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Cornish College of the Arts is a truly special place that is making a positive impact on the arts and culture of our society.
