VCU Libraries will soon unveil a new tool to engage students and aid researchers: a Data Visualization Wall that will inspire visual communication of complex ideas and concepts. 

Data visualization is the graphical representation of data and information using visual elements like charts, graphs, maps, dashboards and animations that make data easier to see, understand and interpret. These visualizations help users see patterns and trends and identify relationships and connections. This knowledge informs decision-making and actions in many fields–from boardrooms to laboratories. 

The Data Visualization Wall is a 4.5 x 8-feet (110-inch diagonal) video wall composed of four separate Sharp NEC 55” ultra-narrow bezel professional grade displays with a 3840x2160 resolution. The wall includes audio capability for presentations with six suspended speakers in the surrounding space.  

It is installed on Cabell Library’s Lower Level adjacent to The Workshop, a popular center for media design and creation and data processing. The Data Visualization Wall will exhibit compelling visualizations created at VCU and beyond. The flexible area will be converted to a learning space with seating for presentations and data visualization events. 

"People just love visualizations for illustrating data,” says Research Data Librarian Nina Exner, Ph.D. “They're beautiful and also help show the point. Visualization is such a key data skill, and data skills are always in demand.”

Exner expects the wall will attract projects from many disciplines and fields of practice, including artists and designers. “We have so many great students who work across boundaries in data, and we're looking forward to seeing even more projects from them.” 

Workshops, panels and presentations will soon be announced. “These experiences will prepare students for a future in a data-driven world, foster a sustainable level of interest in data visualization, and promote interdisciplinary collaborations that enhance VCU's cultural and economic vitality,” says Eric Johnson. As Head of Creative Technologies and Scholarship, he oversees the content for the wall. VCU Libraries has long offered workshops, events, collections and expertise related to creative technologies and research communication. Upcoming events include GIS Day. 

“We expect to use the wall for a steady stream of programs and examples of interesting data visualizations,” Johnson says.  One collaboration is already underway. Dr. Catherine M. Hulshof, Associate Professor in the School of Life Sciences and Sustainability, received VCU Quest funding in part for an inspirational and educational data visualization project. She approached VCU Libraries as a potential partner and after brainstorming, the plans for the Data Visualization Wall emerged.

In addition to Hulshof’s Quest grant, the new Data Visualization Wall is funded through the Friends of VCU Libraries. A VCU Foundation Big Idea Grant will provide support for expanded computing capabilities, events and a student contest over the next 12 months.  

“The generous support from a wide variety of funders for this project demonstrates confidence in the VCU Libraries to serve as an interdisciplinary hub for data visualization engagement,” said Associate Dean for Scholarly Communications and Publishing Jimmy Ghaphery. “I look forward to seeing how the VCU Community leverages and shapes our expanded offerings in this area.

For more information about the Data Visualization Wall or to reach out with ideas for collaborations, contact The Workshop (theworkshop@vcu.edu).