Creative pulse: Center for Collaborative Arts & Technology breaks ground on the UNM campus

Construction has begun on the new Center for Collaborative Arts & Technology (CCAT) on the University of New Mexico campus.

The 60,000-square foot facility will house the UNM College of Fine Arts. It will be located on the corner of Stanford Drive and Central Avenue NE. Construction is tentatively expected to be completed in the spring 2026.

“It really reflects, in my opinion, our talented faculty, students and staff,” said Harris Smith, dean of the College of Fine Arts. “We finally have a building that reflects that talent and commitment of our staff and students. And once it’s completed, it’s going to help support the students in their learning, their experiences as students, it’s going to support the faculty and their research and teaching, and all of that combined is going to help impact and advance the state of New Mexico.”

Creative pulse: Center for Collaborative Arts & Technology breaks ground on the UNM campus

Smith said there will be five different program elements within the building, including a 600 seat performance hall, a 50 seat multifunctional classroom for all departments within the College of Fine Arts, a sound stage for the film and digital arts department, as well as a 1,000-square foot gallery for art and art history exhibitions for students and faculty members.

The CCAT will feature a “super lobby” where interdisciplinary performances and exhibitions can be held.

UNM received $45 million from the state through general obligation bonds approved by New Mexico voters in 2022 and the university put in another $20 million in institutional bonds to fund the CCAT. Fundraising through philanthropic efforts has also contributed to building the facility.

Diller Scofidio + Renfro (DS+R), an internationally renowned architecture practice, was selected for the CCAT project. DS+R is working in collaboration with Albuquerque-based ROMA Architecture. DS+R also designed The Juilliard School, Lincoln Center, as well as the High Line in New York City, said Hannah M. Treder, communications and development specialist for the College of Fine Arts.

“We are excited to partner with UNM in creating a transformative space that fosters collaboration and artistic expression,” said Benjamin Gilmartin, partner at DS+R, in a statement. “The Center for Collaborative Arts & Technology will not only enrich the university community, but also serve as a catalyst for the growth and advancement of the arts in New Mexico.”