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 100 Events
We're thrilled to celebrate with our community. Join us, and watch for more events coming in 2026.
| Event | Date + Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| En Route: mobile forms of art and education | September 12 - November 16, 12-5pm | Libby Leshgold Gallery, Emily Carr University | See map |
| Open Studio + Riso Printing Demo at Moniker Press | Nov 1, 1–4pm | Moniker Press, Sun Wah Centre | See map |
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
Ian Wallace Speaks with Dr. Trish Kelly on Links Between Work as Artist and Educator
A conversation between the acclaimed artist and ECU President was the first of a speaker series marking the university’s centennial anniversary.
Tales of an Outreach Instructor: Artist Polly Faminow Reflects on Her Years in ECU’s Storied Printmobile + Beyond
The artist and educator looks back at her time helping lead one of ECU’s innovative programs for bringing creative education to communities across BC.
New Documentary on Life and Work of Painter E.J. Hughes Celebrates World Premiere at Vancouver International Film Festival
Produced by filmmaker Kevin Eastwood, The Painted Life of E.J. Hughes offers an intimate portrait of one of the country’s most sought-after painters.
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!
The Art You’ve Seen But Didn’t Know Was ECU
Many of Vancouver’s most recognized public artworks were created by members of the ECU community.