A question in clay: Sculpture at Maloney Hall invites reflection

By Julian Layne ’25

Visitors entering Maloney Hall at Central are met with a striking and unexpected presence: a life-sized figure holding a sign that asks a simple yet deeply layered question:
“What will become of me?”

Created by artist Dr. Thomas Zaccheo, the sculpture is intentionally non-anatomical, representing not a specific individual but humanity as a whole, across age, identity, and experience. Constructed from unfired clay over a steel armature, the piece is designed to evolve over time. Exposure to weather and natural conditions will gradually alter its form, reinforcing the idea that change and impermanence are not flaws, but essential elements of the work itself.

“My goal with this piece is to encourage people to look beyond the surface,” Zaccheo says. “There are many layers to the question, and I hope it sparks reflection and dialogue.”

At first glance, the question may seem to point toward an inevitable conclusion. But Zaccheo challenges viewers to look deeper. The message extends beyond the physical and into broader considerations, personal responsibility, societal direction, and the future we collectively shape.

“It is obvious what will become of us: We will return to nature,” he says. “But I hope people also recognize the strength of the human race and feel optimistic about the future.”

That balance between realism and optimism is central to the piece. While the sculpture acknowledges uncertainty and change, it also serves as a call to action. Zaccheo emphasizes that individuals play a role in shaping both their immediate environment and the larger world.

“If we make our ‘microcosm’ (the place we live) the best it can be, then the ‘macrocosm’ (the world at large) will be better,” he says.

The installation invites direct participation. A notebook placed nearby (or by accessing a shared QR code) allows visitors to record their thoughts, questions, and reactions anonymously. In doing so, the audience becomes part of the artwork itself, contributing to an evolving record of shared reflection. As the sculpture changes over time, the written responses will preserve the emotional and intellectual impact it had on those who encountered it.

Zaccheo believes this interaction is especially meaningful in today’s climate.

“There is a sense of unease in the population because of current events,” he says. “People are looking for a more peaceful, compassionate world. My feeling is that we all must contribute and not leave it up to others to do the hard work.”

Now in his 90s, Zaccheo brings a lifetime of experience to his work. A retired physician, he has lived through some of the most defining events of the past century, including the Great Depression, natural disasters, and global health crises. These experiences, along with the values instilled by his parents, have shaped his perspective on resilience, responsibility, and progress.

“When presented with a problem, their answer was always to work toward a solution rather than accept it,” he says.