Construction begins this summer on Do Good Plaza to make room for a new interactive audio public art exhibit leading to Thurgood Marshall Hall. Adding to the iconic ‘Do Good’ sculpture and the ‘Change the World Exhibit’ located just inside the ground floor lobby, the new Rings celebrate the different ways our School and university are united in purpose to Do Good.
Standing 12’ tall, the installation will consist of five sensor-activated Rings with speakers that connect visitors with voices from UMD’s campus. In addition, the campus community and visitors alike will be surprised and delighted by local sounds of Maryland and experience a fun and interactive musical instrument.
Whether it's a short inspiring quote from a member of UMD’s campus, a seasonal soundscape of Maryland wildlife, or pomp and circumstance during commencement week, the exhibit will constantly evolve and shift with the flow of campus life and provide each visitor with a unique experience. Voices from across campus including School of Public Policy students, alums and staff/faculty members lent their voices to the first series of interactive audio elements.
The exhibit is a first-of-its-kind live art display meant to inspire and delight visitors to campus. With Thurgood Marshall Hall being the first stop on all UMD campus tours, the Rings and Do Good Plaza pique interest and convey to prospective students that if you want to do good, Maryland is the place for you. This experience serves as a reminder of the University of Maryland’s commitment to tackling the grand challenges of our time, inspiring guests with the voices of chance-takers and difference-makers. In the same vein, it also showcases the School of Public Policy as a national leader in nonprofit leadership, education, and social innovation.
The exhibit is expected to be functional this fall. Stay tuned for more information on when you can experience it!