From the Director
January/February '06

In September 2005, the FIA opened Phase I of an extensive, locally funded $12.6 million dollar renovation, which emphasized an expansion of the art school from 5,000 to 15,000 square feet. A new theater for films and lectures, a large "great hall" seating over 250, a cafe, Museum store, and expanded lobby entrance were added to make the facility a more conducive place for large audiences and a growing student body to gather. Phase I also improved the facility to include energy efficient mechanical and HVAC systems, as well as updated components to meet ADA requirements.

Budget restrictions prevented the construction, in Phase I, of additional galleries in which to exhibit the FIA's large collection of art work. Gallery expansion was put on hold until Phase II and, although Phase II was designed by the architect at the same time as Phase I, there were no immediate plans to break ground. "By designing the (FIA) expansion and addition, at the same time as the renovation phase, we created a series of strategic transformations and additions that could take place at any time," said frederick Fisher, president, Frederick Fisher and Partners Architects.

The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation was a lead donor to Phase I and when they learned of the financial savings by building Phase II now instead of later, they offered to fund Phase II in its entirety. On November 17, 2005, the Flint Institute of Arts announced the Phase II expansion, which includes the addition of a temporary exhibition gallery and three permanent collection galleries (a total of 10,950 square feet) to the east of the structure and the addition of 7,000 square feet of collections/facilities management space to the south of the existing structure. With an award of $7.15 million from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation for the Capital portion of Phase II, construction has begun and is scheduled for completion in fall of 2006.

“The lifeblood of any museum is its ability to display objects that attract, instruct, and inspire visitors of all ages and backgrounds,” said William S. White, President and CEO of the C.S. Mott Foundation. “We believe this expansion will further strengthen the FIA’s role as a cultural and educational resource for the greater Flint community. It already is one of Flint’s real treasures, and we are pleased to help the FIA move forward into the 21st century and beyond.”

John B. Henry III, Director