The architecture behind the Oklahoma State University Plaza Gallery is both innovative and purposeful.
The Postal Plaza Gallery stands as a beacon of education and art display within Downtown Stillwater.
Carefully designed by Rand Elliott Architects, the space serves as the home for the OSU Museum of Art. This dual purpose creates a unique environment where teaching, viewing, and preserving art are intertwined.
The vision for the Postal Plaza Project was not just to create a gallery but to build a comprehensive art hub for students and citizens alike.
It transforms the historic postal building into a modern facility featuring state-of-the-art galleries and classrooms.
This transformation supports the educational aims of Oklahoma State University while enriching the local community’s cultural landscape.
Victoria Berry, a significant figure in the project, highlights the gallery’s role in fostering community engagement and learning.
The design team, including Elliott & Associates, capitalized on the building’s unique character, creating a space that showcases both its historical roots and modern functionality.
By doing so, they have made the Postal Plaza Gallery an integral part of Downtown Stillwater’s vibrant art scene.
Architectural Innovation at OSU Plaza Gallery
The OSU Plaza Gallery stands out as a modern art space, blending historical elements with innovative design. Its transformation brings together the past and present, creating a unique setting for the university and public.
Design Philosophy of Elliott + Associates Architects
Elliott + Associates Architects, led by Rand Elliott, infused their projects with a blend of raw and refined elements.
Their approach emphasizes natural light and open spaces.
This design philosophy is evident in the integration of skylights, which flood the gallery with light.
The use of raw materials like concrete and steel preserves the building’s integrity while giving it a contemporary edge.
The goal was to create an inviting university art space that encourages creative thinking and community engagement.
The Transformation of Postal Plaza into a Modern Art Space
The renovation of the old Post Office Building by Manhattan Construction transformed it into a vibrant gallery space.
The new design incorporates modern lighting and climate control while respecting the building’s historical essence.
The gallery now features areas for exhibition installation and collection management.
It also includes a storage facility for preserving art pieces.
The Teaching Museum and Archives offer educational opportunities, making the space not just for display but also for learning.
Located in Stillwater, Oklahoma, the gallery has become a cornerstone of the community, blending historical preservation with contemporary design innovation.
Engagement and Enhancements in Art Education
Oklahoma State University has made significant strides in integrating art education with active engagement through exhibitions and comprehensive collections.
Interactions with Art: Exhibitions and Collections
The OSU Postal Plaza Gallery is a hub for students and the community to experience art. Exhibitions feature pieces from the university’s extensive art collection. These exhibitions showcase works from the ancient world to the present day.
These exhibitions are designed to not only display art but also to engage viewers in the history and context of the pieces.
In addition to exhibitions, the gallery provides facilities for art storage and preservation. Proper storage ensures that the art collection is maintained in optimal condition, allowing for its continual use in educational settings.
This has made the gallery a vital component of art education, supporting both classroom learning and independent study.
The gallery’s mission extends beyond education to cultural engagement by fostering a vibrant community where art is both appreciated and studied. The Oklahoma State University Museum of Art also contributes to this mission, advancing creativity and lifelong learning through its programs and exhibits.
Head back to E-A-A.com homepage.