Winthrop's tradition of public art and design began with its first president, D.B. Johnson, who brought copies of Classical sculpture to the Rock Hill campus to educate and enrich.  In the manner of institutional architecture at the turn of the century, Winthrop's built environment also possesses decorative elements that enhance the campus' distinct design. 

Today, Winthrop supports an innovative program that gives art and design students ongoing opportunities to create and fabricate temporary and permanent works for the university's public spaces.