Susan Byrnes believes it does.

Does ArtStreet better the UD community?

Byrnes thinks so.

What about students not involved in the fine arts?

Byrnes wants them to join in the fun.

Byrnes is the new director of ArtStreet. She wants to change how students perceive the living/learning community.

'The architecture of ArtStreet is trying to have a conversation with the student neighborhood,' Byrnes said. 'I hope to make the 'Art' in ArtStreet inviting to people, not intimidating.'

Byrnes, a working artist, was attracted to the UD community and immediately saw ArtStreet's unique potential.

'When I got here, I loved the spirit of this place. I found the people I met had a strong commitment to community. That was better than any job description.'

Byrnes hopes to initiate programs that will foster learning across disciplines using arts as the medium.

'I'm so excited about ArtStreet. I want to share my excitement with the residents, faculty and staff,' Byrnes said. 'There is so much potential here.

'I want to tap into the cross-disciplinary nature of UD. If ArtStreet can help connect people in the arts, it will show people its true value.'

Prior to UD, Byrnes taught art classes, worked as a career advisor for artists and an executive director of a modern dance company. She recently received her Masters degree in sculpture from Eastern Michigan University, and received a bachelor's degree in photography from Syracuse University.

In October, Byrnes' artwork will be featured in an exhibit in Albuquerque, NM.

'I have a background in art administration,' Byrnes said. 'I found ArtStreet to be a most interesting and unusual situation.'

Byrnes is planning many new workshops and opportunities for students to get involved. She hopes to include more small workshops along with a film series and art exhibits. Halloween and Christmas on Campus activities are currently in the works.

'Hopefully ArtStreet will be able to include people from all areas of study who are interested in improving and participating in the campus community in a creative way,' Byrnes said.

ArtBeat and Back Porch Jam will both occur again this year. ArtBeat will take place on Sept. 23 and Back Porch Jam is slated for Nov. 16. Byrnes also hopes to work with Residence Education to continue Art in My House, a program that promotes conversation about art and culture from students' neighborhood homes.

The newly finished Amphitheatre, located on the corner of Lawnview and Kiefaber Streets, will be used during the fall and spring as weather permits.