TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – The Manhattan Arts Center is constructing an outdoor learning space on a formerly unused parking lot next to the center.
The idea came from a mural by Frank Hammond, a professor of practice at K-State, to put the unused lot to use.
“I think it just expands the learning environment, it gets them outside,” Hammond said. “But I also think that brings a little awareness to the community about what’s happening here.”
The project is also one of teamwork, with students from K-State’s interior and industrial design department drawing up original plans and handcrafting the furniture for the space.
“It provides an awesome learning opportunity for them to work on something real and kinda leave a legacy behind when they do things outside of Manhattan,” K-State Instructor for interior architecture and industrial design, Richard Thompson, said.
The completed outdoor space will feature the mural continuing onto the concrete floor and sun shades to combat the summer heat; hopefully, bringing the community together.
“We’re hoping activating this space gets more people engaged, not only with arts, but with community; so bringing in K-State, bringing in community members, high school kids,” Manhattan Arts Center executive director Kendra Kuhlman said. Anyone can come and engage with this space, and instead of just being empty, it’s now a space that’s useful.”
The outdoor learning space at the Manhattan Arts Center is expected to be completed by summer this year.
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