100 Years in the Making
Celebrating art, design and innovation in Canada and beyond.
For a century, Emily Carr University of Art + Design has been a place where creativity sparks change. Founded in 1925, we began as a small art school with a bold vision: that art and design could shape society, influence culture and imagine new ways of living. That vision has guided us ever since.
From the first painters and sculptors to today’s filmmakers, animators, designers and media artists, generations of students have come here to experiment, to take risks and to create work that matters. Our alumni have transformed industries, launched movements and brought fresh ideas to communities across British Columbia, Canada and the world. Their stories remind us that creativity is not just about expression — it is about impact. As we celebrate 100 years, we honour this legacy of boldness and curiosity. But anniversaries are not only about looking back. They are also about asking what comes next.
At Emily Carr University, the next 100 years begin now. With practice-based learning, research and collaboration at our core, we continue to prepare artists, designers and creative thinkers to face the challenges of our time — and to imagine the futures we cannot yet see. Because art and design don’t just reflect the world, they shape it. And for 100 years, that’s exactly what we’ve been doing.
ECU Through the Years
A drawing of the Vancouver School Board building at 590 Hamilton Street, the first home of the Vancouver School of Decorative and Applied Arts beginning October 1, 1925. Handwritten annotation on the drawing: "Vancouver School Board, the location of art school on 2nd (top) floor. The renovation of this facility in 1951/2 added a story".
A classroom in action at the Vancouver School of Decorative and Applied Arts in the 1920s.
In 1933, we were renamed the Vancouver School of Art.
A group of students painting a mural at the Vancouver School of Art in the 1940s.
Students working on sculpture (left) and screen printing (right) projects at the Vancouver School of Art in the 1950s.
In 1978, we were renamed to Emily Carr College of Art and designated a provincial institution. Pictured here, a group of fashionable students socialize on the front steps of the school.
In 1980, we moved to Granville Island.
In 1981, we became Emily Carr College of Art + Design.
In 1994, we became Emily Carr Institute of Art + Design and started to offer degrees in our own name, plus our second building opened on Granville Island.
In 2008, we received university status becoming Emily Carr University of Art + Design.
In 2017, we moved from Granville Island to Great Northern Way. The university’s new state-of-the-art campus was the country's first purpose-built centre for visual arts, design and media arts education and research.
In 2024, ECU proudly celebrated the installation of Dr. Trish Kelly as the university's 10th president.
On October 7, 2025, the City of Vancouver’s Mayor and Council held a ceremony at Vancouver City Hall to proclaim Oct. 1, 2025, in honour of Emily Carr University of Art + Design’s 100th anniversary.
Alumni Connections
As ECU turns 100, we’d love for you to be part of the celebrations and stay connected with the community that shaped you. Whether you’re looking to reconnect, grow, give back or share your journey, we’ve got you covered.
Stay in the Loop
Update your contact details so you can receive invitations to centennial events, stories about fellow alumni and exclusive offers.
Reconnect, Grow + Give Back
Visit The Leeway to network with creative leaders, explore career resources, connect with peers through our alumni directory or sign up as a mentor. Support the next generation of artists and designers by making a donation.
Share Your Story
We’re collecting alumni stories to spotlight during our 100th year and beyond. Take a moment to tell us about your journey.
Centennial Stories
Discover the Alumni Artists Featured in Our ECU 100 Campaign
Throughout the Fall, we have been showcasing the works of our illustrious alumni who exemplify our values of creativity and innovation across digital and public spaces.
Arts Umbrella and Emily Carr University Launch Entry Program for the Next Generation of Artists
Students can now earn ECU credits and a portfolio waiver through the Arts Umbrella Intensive Program
Communication Design Students Explore ECU’s Past, Present and Future with New Publications
Stories of Emily Carr comprises nine volumes researched, written and designed by third-year students on the occasion of ECU’s centennial.
Shortlisted to Revitalize Granville Island: Narrow Group and Emily Carr University Propose Plan for 1399 Johnston
ECU and The Narrow Group have been shortlisted to help reimagine a historic Granville Island building as a new Arts and Innovation Hub.
City of Vancouver Proclaims Oct. 1, 2025, in Honour of Emily Carr University’s Centennial Anniversary
The city’s Mayor and Council spoke in recognition of ECU’s century of community impact during a special ceremony at Vancouver City Hall.
ECU Celebrates a Century of Creative Impact
Join us in Celebrating 100 Years in the Making!