For over 20 years, nearly 200 students at University of Massachusetts/Dartmouth’s College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) received their higher education learning, hands-on studio practice, and exhibition opportunities at the Star Store building in downtown New Bedford, 6 miles from main campus. 

This August, students were told to vacate the Star Store as UMass no longer planned to hold CVPA classes or studio work there. Instead, some classes would be moved back to campus and they leased a former Bed, Bath & Beyond in Dartmouth now called the Art and Design Studio.

On September 25, the students sent a letter to UMass leadership requesting an in-person meeting to discuss specific plans on how they may salvage their education. So far, the University has not responded.

During August, the students organized their Save the Star Store campaign. Their online petition received over 5,000 signatures of support and their on-site rally enjoyed dozens of supporters including UMass CVPA alumni, New Bedford businesses, residents, and more.

Despite organizing, many of the CVPA students still have not begun their fall semester, as the Art and Design Studio is not yet equipped with tools and supplies for studio work.