The Dot Experience: More than Just a Museum

Darrick Wood became the Director of The Dot Experience in December. “I couldn’t be more excited. It feels like my whole career has been building to this,” says Wood. Wood brings more than 25 years of experience in museums, hands-on centers, K-12 schools, broadcast media production, live theater, and community event planning.  At first it might seem hard to find a connection between the different fields, but Wood has always known it was there. “I’ve always been drawn to creating spaces that give people permission to be themselves and follow their own natural curiosity. No matter what I’m working on, the goal is always the same. I love to design experiences so people can discover new things about themselves, the world, and their place in it.” 

Preserving a Sense of Wonder 

After decades of developing curiosity-based programs, Wood has learned that our sense of wonder can be a very strong force. “When we find something that interests us, we naturally want to know more. As soon as we ask a question, we immediately start searching for the answer. It’s very hard to resist,” says Wood.  The world is filled with so many ways to distract ourselves from our own sense of wonder, and Wood believes one of the biggest obstacles is fear. “Fear of embarrassment, fear of getting something wrong, fear of not knowing what to do. It’s hard to be open-minded and open-hearted, when we are nervous about making a mistake.” 

 Building a Culture of Belonging 

The Dot Experience has made a priority of helping visitors feel safe and comfortable, so they can follow their curiosity as they explore the museum. “You can’t learn and grow if your needs aren’t being met,” says Wood. This is why The Dot Experience team is focused on creating a “culture of belonging.” From the moment you enter the museum, there will be trained staff to help answer questions, encourage your independent exploration, and remind you that whoever you are, you are welcome here. 

This “culture of belonging” is a necessary first step, so visitors can begin to follow their natural curiosity without distractions or discomfort. “Visitors can then start to notice all the details in this fantastic museum, like all the creative design features for increased accessibility found in the displays, in the floors, in the technology —everywhere!” says Wood. As visitors pay attention to these details, they may naturally start to think a little differently about how they participate in these spaces. “If someone has never felt comfortable in a museum, I hope they feel comfortable here. And if someone has always felt comfortable in museums, I hope they are inspired to ask, ‘What can I do to help others feel like they belong here too?’” 

 A Place for Everyone 

The inclusive attitude at The Dot Experience will also be found in how the museum will use the new space in new ways. There will be community events, programs for all ages, and interactive experiences designed with the spirit of belonging. “We hope to remove the obstacles that have kept you from being yourself and connecting with others who may have very different life experiences than your own,” says Wood. This is why Wood can hardly wait for the museum to open. “The possibilities are so exciting,” he says with a smile. “From the museum design features for increased accessibility, the programs that invite you to connect with others in your community, to the staff who truly want you to be here, I’m excited to offer The Dot Experience as more than just a museum. It’s a place where everyone is welcome.”