Project Description

Situated on NJPAC’s campus in Downtown Newark at the corner of Center and Mulberry Streets, the Cooperman Family Arts Education and Community Center will invite the community into a new center of learning, exploration and creation. Connecting local students and community members with both acclaimed and emerging artists, the Center expands an already impressive performing arts education program that encourages creativity across all ages and demographics.

Students, educators, artists, and the public are welcomed into an indoor “street” that constitutes the heart of the approximately 58,000 square foot, three-story building. Flanking both sides of the interior street are the performing arts education and professional rehearsal spaces. Horizontal openings along the exterior and interior facades showcase the activity within, while double-height windows frame views north toward the main NJPAC building and forthcoming residential and retail spaces and south down Mulberry Street. This state-of-the-art cultural facility will foster a sense of community and belonging and engage students, families, and educators with the performing arts. A floor of state-of-the-industry rehearsal spaces on the upper level of the building will allow professional artists the opportunity to create new work.

As an urban catalyst linking the revitalizing downtown with New Jersey Performing Arts Center, the Cooperman Family Arts Education and Community Center will be a nexus of learning, exchange, and celebration, drawing from the diverse Newark culture and community to create unforgettable experiences.

Selected Recognition

Featured in Architectural Record, Architect’s Newspaper, Philanthropy News Digest, ArchDaily, Building Design + Construction, and others.

Visualization © WEISS/MANFREDI

Role

Senior Project Manager