The old engineering shops of the Studio Arts Building hardly inspire the beautiful works that come out of them. The building’s poor ventilation, loose bricks and grimy surfaces surely do little for the University’s budding artists.

The announcement of the building’s proposed $12 million renovation leaves us with one thing to say: It’s about time.

It’s shameful art students attending the flagship university have to complete their work in a decrepit and dangerous environment. Then-painting and drawing senior Ashley LeBlanc told The Daily Reveille last year she feared for her safety after a near confrontation, and the building remains unlocked at all hours.

Students spend countless hours working in the engineering shops. They deserve a safe, clean, updated space to develop ideas, practice their craft and complete projects. 

As perhaps the most creative group of students on campus, art majors need a locale to match. The functionality of their equipment and surroundings is crucial to their art, grades and success. 

College of Art and Design Dean Alkis Tsolakis told The Reveille “all the concerns of everyone who is going to be working in that building are addressed.” We sincerely hope that comes to fruition, considering the extensive and critical nature of the list of complaints.

This renovation could attract more talented students to the University’s art program and thrust it into the national spotlight. Even locally, both Baton Rouge and neighboring New Orleans have thriving arts communities. We want our peers to have the proper training in a stimulating environment so they can seamlessly join those ranks. 

We’re looking forward to seeing what $12 million can give to the old engineering shops — hopefully more than a few iPads and Mac Minis for
faculty members.