Expressive Technology Studios

The Expressive Technology Studios will foster student creativity
and collaboration in sound design, virtual reality and more.
 

Artists and technologists work together to create new forms of expression

A gift from a generous donor kick-started construction plans for an exciting new building that will place the College of Liberal Arts in the first explicitly interdisciplinary building on campus. The college will use the opportunity to create Expressive Technology Studios, a physical space dedicated to developing the educational intersection between technology, humanity and the arts.

“Our vision is to put Cal Poly at the forefront of expressive technology,” said Dean Doug Epperson. “The future of entertainment and storytelling for social change depends on artists and technologists working together to create new forms of expression.”

With its diverse project spaces, an environment designed to foster interaction, and state-of-the-art equipment, the Expressive Technology Studios will be home to innovative collaborations. Using the same professional hardware and software found in the entertainment industry, students will be able to create broadcast-quality video, special effects, virtual-reality experiences and digital games. Networking systems will support creative planning with teams on campus, across the state and around the world, allowing students to work directly with new corporate partners. From planning and producing, through post-production and distribution, students will have a complete hub where they can create a range of media, preparing them for professions ranging from animation to risk communication.

A large portion of the funding for the building is secured, but the college needs help from alumni and supporters to create the Expressive Technology Studios, which will open a new world of possibilities for Cal Poly students. The College of Liberal Arts aims to raise an additional $4 million by June 2017 to build the best facility possible. “We’re working on an accelerated timeline because the architects will finalize plans by the end of this year,” said Epperson. “And we are very eager to have a physical home for our expressive technology programs.”
 

Be a Part of the Future of Expressive Technology

Thanks to donors like you, when students and faculty move into this building in 2020, they will see a leading-edge facility that can be configured to their specific needs and collaboration spaces that inspire creativity and innovation.