Inspired! Jim Henson at Maryland exhibit opens at the Michelle Smith Performing Arts Library, University of Maryland, College Park

On June 7th, 2019, Inspired! Jim Henson at Maryland exhibit opened at Jim’s Alma Mater. The exhibit provided a window into the profound impact Jim’s experiences at the University of Maryland, both in the classroom and in his extra-curricular activities, had on his creative and professional development, laying the foundation for a remarkable career. Original artwork, student projects, photography and video clips demonstrated the breadth of Henson’s genius, already evident in his early work on local Washington television. The exhibit also explored Henson family connections to the University and Jim’s earliest collaborations, most importantly with his future wife and fellow UMD grad Jane Nebel.

Organized in collaboration with The Jim Henson Legacy and The Jim Henson Company, with additional support from The Jane Henson Foundation and the Michelle Smith Performing Arts Library Endowment, Inspired! Jim Henson at Maryland was on view for the 2019-2020 academic year, timed to coincide with the 60th anniversary of Jim Henson’s graduation from UMD. A celebratory reception was held in September and featured a puppet performance by a UMD theater student supported by a grant from the Jane Henson Foundation.

Jim Henson exhibiting his college artwork in 1958.

UMD curator Vincent Novara with Karen Falk and Susie Tofte of The Jim Henson Company Archives in the Inspired! Jim Henson at Maryland exhibit.