A major fire broke out yesterday at the Glasgow School of Art, reportedly caused by the explosion of a projector in the basement of the Charles Rennie Mackintosh building.  The school has reported that all occupants were evacuated safely with no casualties, but damage has been sustained to the building and the works of art inside, including works made in preparation for the school’s degree show.  “We didn’t think it was anything but we had to go out and then we saw smoke coming out and realised that it was really bad. It got to the point where flames were coming out of the top floor,” says student Hugh Thornhill.  “All that effort is gone, everyone’s work on that side of the building is ruined. Even if it didn’t catch fire it will be damaged extensively.” (more…)

Art F City is reporting on the fallout from the announcement of Cooper Union’s announced decision to begin charging tuition for its students. Following a tense Q and A yesterday afternoon between students and trustees, a walk-out and large-scale protest ensued, which culminated in staff sealing off school windows to prevent the hanging of banners and and protest signs.  During the meeting, trustees avoided questions about potential future tuition hikes, calling Cooper Union’s public accessibility into further question.  “You could all donate to the school.”  Chairman Mark Epstein said in response to a question about curbing inflation. (more…)