State of the Arts
From the opening of Sarofim Hall to academically inspired art and cross-campus collaborations, the arts are entering an exciting new era at Rice.
Edited by Sarah Rufca Nielsen, with contributions from Autumn Horne ’22 and Tracey Rhoades
The arts are entering an exciting new moment at Rice. From the opening of Susan and Fayez Sarofim Hall, including its new home for Rice Cinema, to new gallery spaces, academically inspired public art and cross-campus collaborations that blend art with music, science and more, we’re exploring how creative work is increasingly woven into the everyday life of the university.
State of the Arts
Rice has strengthened its commitment to visual arts education with the opening of Sarofim Hall, a landmark building designed to honor Rice’s history, inspire creativity and expand opportunities for artistic exploration.
The Return of Rice Cinema
A new home, upgraded tech and the same cinephile spirit power Rice Cinema’s next chapter.
Sight and Sound
With New Art / New Music, the Moody Center and the Shepherd School turn visual art into a catalyst for musical experimentation.
Mixed Media
With help from the Moody Center and the Arts Initiatives Fund, Rice faculty are exploring a new, artistic canvas for scholarship and collaboration.
Architectural Acumen
Inside Cannady Hall, a new pair of galleries invites visitors to see the world through the eyes of architects, connecting design, art and the challenges of our time.
A Campus, Curated
Rice’s expanding public art collection is anchored by a handful of site-specific works that illustrate the beauty of academic ideas.
From the Winter 2026 issue of Rice Magazine