The Cleveland Institute of Art (CIA) launched its new Interactive Media Lab (IML) in March 2025. This milestone project marks a significant advancement for the CIA and the broader MidTown community, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a center for creativity and innovation.
Occupying 14,300 square feet and two stories within the Midtown Collaboration Center, the $13 million tenant fit-out is a state-of-the-art facility designed to place CIA students at the leading edge of the rapidly evolving fields of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), game design, and immersive storytelling. The space also features a fully equipped XR film studio, supporting next-generation content creation at the intersection of art, design, and technology.
More than just an academic resource, the IML is conceived as a collaborative hub where CIA students, faculty, industry partners, and community members can engage in hands-on exploration and creative development. The space fosters partnerships across disciplines and supports community-driven innovation with a mission to empower youth, stimulate economic growth, and broaden access to high-tech creative tools.
By combining artistic excellence with technological advancement, the CIA Interactive Media Lab enhances the Institute’s educational offerings and strengthens its role as a catalyst for cultural and economic impact in Cleveland and beyond
Cleveland, OH
14,300 SF