The Michelle Smith Performing Arts Library, in partnership with the David C. Driskell Center, will memorialize Michelle Smith and David Driskell, two community pillars lost in 2020, but whose legacies have shaped the arts and academics at the University of Maryland. This new exhibit includes a painting of Michelle Smith created by her mother and our building's namesake, Clarice Smith, as well as a painting by David Driskell. The paintings accompany blackboard panels for community reflection, as well as a wall that shows images of performance work produced during the pandemic from students, faculty and staff. The exhibit is curated by Drew Barker, Performing Arts Librarian.

This event is part of NextNOW Fest. The Clarice’s NextNOW Fest is an inspiring arts experience that celebrates imagination, creativity and community. By amplifying the voices of intriguing, inventive artists from around campus and our community, NextNOW Fest creates a forward-looking microcosm where art transforms our future and (re)connects us all.

NextNOW Fest is a signature event in University of Maryland's new Arts for All initiative, which leverages the combined power of the arts, technology and social justice to address the grand challenges of our time. In addition to our traditional student, academic and touring arts lineup at The Clarice on Sep 17 and 18, we’re thrilled to forge new partnerships with more student-led groups, academic departments and community organizations to expand the festival to seven days at sites throughout campus and into College Park! 

View Full NextNOW Fest 2021 Lineup & Schedule>>