The Mary M. Torggler Fine Arts Center symbolizes Christopher Newport’s bold vision for the role that art plays in our lives.
This 83,000-square-foot facility houses the Department of Fine Arts and Art History and boasts the following features:
- Magnificent main gallery for major exhibitions
- Interactive Art Explorers Gallery for children (opening in 2022)
- Community art gallery
- Studio classrooms for academic and public art classes, workshops, and camps
- 150-seat auditorium
We will present an exciting and diverse array of changing exhibitions, as well as year-round educational programs for audiences of all ages. Whether viewing an exhibition, taking a class, or attending a lecture or gallery talk, you can explore compelling ideas through the visual arts here.
The center bears the name of Mary M. Torggler. Mary and her husband George are longtime supporters of arts and education programs at Christopher Newport. Through their generosity, the Torgglers aspire to create unique opportunities for artists in both the performing and visual arts to flourish. Their support already makes possible the university’s renowned Torggler Vocal Institute, and they endowed the George and Mary Torggler Professorship of Music. Their son, Hunter, graduated from CNU in 2014 with a degree in music.