This program is hosted on Zoom and Facebook Live. Upon registering you will receive an email confirmation and a Zoom link. If you do not receive a link, please contact ndennies@aiabalt.com. If you do not contact us at least 1 hour prior to the start of the program, we cannot guarantee admittance.

In 2018, the National Aquarium opened its Animal Care and Rescue Center (ACRC) in Baltimore’s historic Jonestown neighborhood. From comprehensive animal care and rehabilitation for up to 5,000 animals to the production of 15,000 gallons of saltwater monthly, the ACRC was constructed to allow guests to witness the Aquarium team’s extensive behind-the-scenes work through guided tours and classroom activities. Along with the animals and husbandry staff, the ACRC also houses the Aquarium’s in-house exhibit design and fabrication studio, where expert artists create functional, intricate habitats that meet the Aquarium’s high animal care standards while recreating environments that millions of Aquarium guests may otherwise never have the chance to experience in the wild. In this Doors Open Baltimore program, meet the artists and watch a live tour of their workshop while learning how the ACRC helps provide guests a unique and meaningful connection to the Aquarium’s mission.

Presenters

Jacqueline Bershad, a LEED certified architect with over 20 years’ experience designing and building museum and exhibit projects, is the National Aquarium’s vice president of planning and design. She is joined by:

• Paul Valiquette, director of exhibit fabrication & operations

• Jessica Young, manager, exhibit graphic design

• Adam Nelson, habitat production lead

Photo courtesy Theresa Keil, National Aquarium Event Photographer

This event has been organized by the Baltimore Architecture Foundation and the National Aquarium. Learn more about Doors Open Baltimore 2020.