Hundreds of life-sized, 3D printed figures will be displayed in NorthPark Center from May through October to highlight female leaders in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
A popular destination point in Dallas, Texas, NorthPark has over 235 stores and restaurants.
“We are thrilled to be a part of this groundbreaking installation aimed at raising awareness and inspiring young girls everywhere to consider pursuing careers in STEM,” said NorthPark Center owner Nancy A. Nasher in a statement.
According to the announcement, each of the statues represents a real If/Then ambassador selected through a process by IF/THEN and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the world’s largest general scientific society.
IF/THEN® is part of Lyda Hill Philanthropies®’ commitment to fund game-changing advancements in science and nature, advance women in STEM by empowering current innovators and activate a culture shift among young girls to open their eyes to STEM careers by funding and elevating women in STEM as role models and presenting girls with better portrayals of women in STEM through media and learning experiences to pique their interest in STEM careers.
The 3D printing project was inspired by a recent study, commissioned by former Treasurer of the United States Rosie Rios, of publicly accessible statues in the top ten U.S. cities.
Across Washington D.C. and San Francisco, her initial research concluded that less than half a dozen statues of real American women exist outdoors in their main parks or downtowns.
Former Treasurer Rios, who led the effort to put a woman on the face of U.S. currency for the first time in over a century, has made it her life’s mission to increase women representation in the public sphere with a concerted effort around statues.
"#IfThenSheCan – The Exhibit is giving young girls a glimpse at careers they never knew existed," said Rios. "Our future leaders need to see inspirations in order to have aspirations."
The 120 statues will depict inspiring women, including Dr. Sylvia Earle, a marine biologist, explorer, author, and lecturer; Forbes’ AI Innovator of the Year in 2019, Allie K. Miller, and other Dallas-based leaders in STEM.
Each of the ambassadors participated in individual, full-body scans at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in October 2019, which were used to create full-sized silhouettes. The statues will be presented with interactive audio and video that tells each woman’s story and explores their careers in industries like entertainment, fashion, sports, and business.
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