IFAC Announces Architect for “ARTitorium on Broadway”

Idaho Falls Arts Council Announces Architect for

“ARTitorium on Broadway”

The Idaho Falls Arts Council (IFAC) is hiring a familiar name to design the interior of the new interactive arts laboratory for youth “ARTitorium on Broadway” which will be housed in the old Rio Theater on at 271 Broadway. Keith T. Kennedy Architecture, based in Idaho Falls, has produced designs for commercial structures ranging from a cookie house to a powdered drink manufacturing facility; from an indoor riding arena and auction barn to assisted living centers and banking facilities; from zoo habitats for lions and tigers to restaurant and motel accommodations. The Rio Theater will be dramatically renovated to be the new home of this interactive facility.

The “ARTitorium on Broadway” will be a place for visitors of all ages and skill levels to explore our world with, through, and about the arts, while letting their imaginations run wild with hours of hands-on art experiences. The ARTitorium will be another attraction within the Cultural District in historic downtown Idaho Falls, which will continue to strengthen the economy in downtown.The decision by the Arts Council clears the way for design work to begin on this unique project. Bids for contractors will be solicited after the design work is approved. The entire “ARTitorium on Broadway” project is estimated at approximately $1.5 million with $1.1 million in cash and in-kind donations already raised. If anyone is interested in contributing to the success of this exciting addition to our community, please contact IFAC Development Director Gina Stevenson 208-522-0471 gstevenson@idahofallsarts.org.

Highlights of ARTitorium include:

❑ Encompassing approximately 5,500 sq. ft on the main floor, 2,000 ft. in the balcony, and additional classroom space in the lower level.

❑ When learning becomes fun; kids love to learn! That why each “art learning station” will use interactive computer/electronic technologies or visually stunning projects to hook young people on art education and thinking creatively.

❑ Stations will be tiered with beginning, intermediate and advanced levels of learning. This will make it possible to serve youth from toddlers to teens. Both individuals and groups will be able to work at stations.

❑ ARTitorium will help children build cognitive skills, self-esteem and express themselves in a positive way.

❑ ARTitorium will partner with area schools to provide children with exciting art education field trips.

❑ Over 40,000 young people and their families are expected to visit ARTitorium annually.

❑ ARTitorium will be open a variety of daytime, evenings and weekend hours for convenient access.