Masterworks, Master Builder: Michael Audain

Thanks to the earlier $5-million core gift from the family foundation of developer and UBC alumnus Michael Audain, UBC visual art students received a “dynamic, inspiring and technically advanced learning environment” – the new Audain Art Centre. A meld of mixed-use student housing, classrooms, gallery, academic and flexible grad and undergrad studios and workspaces, the 25,000-square-foot open, bright and airy purpose-built facility is immediately seen (and used) as the place for art students. This much anticipated and sorely needed ‘central home’ enables students to collaborate, create in the studios and enrich their studies. (To date, Audain and family have donated some $35 million to various art organizations.)