Beginning with a dedication and ribbon-cutting and culminating with dancing to the rhythms of jazz musician Bobby Watson and the High Court of Swing, Ramapo College officially opened the Angelica and Russ Berrie Center for Performing and Visual Arts Saturday, May 15. With this building, the College, backed by the state of New Jersey, has said that art is important. The site of the Berrie Center bespeaks its dual purpose as both learning facility and Ramapo's most public building. Located at the base of a hill with its upper level opening onto the newly formed campus quad and its lower level entrance facing the parking areas, the building is a bridge between the exterior world and the College. The Berrie Center is further situated to take advantage of the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Similar views are available from classrooms, offices and studios.
The new facility consists of four distinct elements, each with a unique identity marked by its own geometric form, roofline and materials. Colorful interiors in shades of purple and green complement stone and steel, and highlight irregularly shaped hallways, classrooms and studios. Playful angles create unusual spaces, literally encouraging students to think outside the box. By its very design the building is a reminder that this is a place where art is made. Inc. The Berries provided the lead gift in a campaign that raised funds from corporations and individuals, College employees and alumni, state and federal government, and private foundations.