OCC Hires Architect for $11-Million Art Center

Orange Coast College has commissioned Southern California architect Steven David Ehrlich to design an $11-million art center to open in fall, 1995.

The 60,000-square-foot, three-story structure on the southern edge of campus will house classrooms, studios, offices, an art gallery and an outdoor teaching amphitheater on the roof of the galleria that serves as the building’s facade.

The International Style design also contains such Postmodern elements as a skylight in the shape of a eucalyptus leaf.

“It was clear to us during the interview session that Mr. Ehrlich brought a special aesthetic sensitivity to the use of light in creating a working and living space,” said Ted Baker, dean of the college’s Fine Arts Division and a member of the committee that selected Ehrlich.

Baker expects to receive state approval for the building during this school year. Groundbreaking is scheduled for 1993 or 1994.

An exhibition of the Venice artist’s work, including renderings of the Art Center project, will be on display Sept. 19 to Oct. 26 in OCC’s Art Gallery. Hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and evenings by appointment. Admission is free.