Input

Input is a public art installation in Bicentennial Park at Ohio University by renowned artist and daughter of an Ohio University professor emerita mother and an OU dean emeritus father, Maya Lin. It is best viewed from above. From that angle, it's intended to look like a computer punch card, partially inspired by the OU computer programming classes Lin took in high school. It consists of 21 grassy rectangles, with concrete borders, some built into the ground and some raised above it. Each rectangle measures 24 by 14 feet. 15 of them are depressed 16 inches into the ground, and the remaining six rise 16 inches above ground level.

Words and phrases are scattered throughout, in seemingly random order. Maya Lin's brother, Tan Lin, composed the verses as a part of a piece about growing up in Athens with university professor parents, which is why some of the words refer to well-known Ohio University or Athens spots.

The rectangles are intended to act as spots for people to relax or study. They initially proved hazardous because students would accidentally step into them at night. Lighting was installed in 2019, making the area safer and more noticeable at night. The piece continues to receive mixed reactions, especially in terms of upkeep and lack of awareness that it is a usable space.

Input was dedicated in 2004 as part of OU's bicentennial. It sits in the park adjacent to Walter Hall and across from the Convocation Center, right off of Richland Ave.