OCM’s Study Space Art Inclusivity Project

The Office of Classroom Management (OCM) is updating art in study spaces around campus. This is a joint project with various teams across ASR. Kristina Laskowski, the leader of the project and OCM’s learning space planner, shares, “Currently, the art in our study spaces across campus feature archived photos, which predominantly reflect a less diverse campus community, ultimately limiting the representation of the current student, faculty, and staff population. The Study Space Art Inclusivity Project aims to update and diversify the artwork displayed in OCM's study areas across campus.”

Replacing this artwork will foster a more welcoming environment for students. This work aligns with ASR’s DEI Vision Statements, as our mission supports finding ways to make a positive difference in students' lives. OCM’s initiative to replace this artwork also promotes accountability by taking responsibility for creating and growing a more inclusive environment for students.

While this project is in its final stages of placing artwork before the fall semester, some of the new artwork has already been placed! You can see the before and after photos below.

Social Science 139 before and after

Ruttan 10 before and after
You can dive deeper into the project by checking out the introductory slides or by visiting the following updated study spaces in person:

• McNeal Hall 190, 192 & 223
• Social Sciences Building 102, 122 & 139
• Ruttan Hall 10
• Biological Sciences 15

Join the Study Space Art Inclusivity Work Group

The Office of Classroom Management is launching our Study Spaces Art Inclusivity Project and would love for you to join! By joining, you will play a hands-on role in updating and diversifying the artwork displayed in general purpose study areas across the Twin Cities campus, thus improving utilization and the student experience. You will also have the opportunity to learn more about art, art curation, and installation.

The group will meet bi-weekly from March 17 through mid-June, with an estimated time commitment of about 6-8 hours outside of meetings. Some tasks will require in-person participation.

If you are interested, add the virtual information meeting to your calendar, which will be on March 3 at 1 p.m. If you cannot attend the meeting but still want to be involved, or if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Kristina Laskowski, OCM Learning Space Planner, at lask0062@umn.edu.