News Summary
Tallahassee has unveiled ‘Maggie,’ the world’s largest magnetic levitating sculpture. The artwork, part of the city’s bicentennial celebration, symbolizes innovation and community collaboration, showcasing Tallahassee’s identity as the ‘Magnetic Capital of the World.’ The project involved key partnerships with local universities and reflects the city’s commitment to blending art and science.
Tallahassee Unveils World’s Largest Magnetic Levitating Sculpture
TALLAHASSEE, FL – On February 19, 2025, Tallahassee unveiled “Maggie,” a magnetic levitating sculpture that stands as the largest of its kind globally. The unveiling occurred during the Motor, Drive Systems and Magnetics Conference, held at the Tucker Civic Center from February 18 to 20, 2025. This event highlighted Tallahassee’s claim as the “Magnetic Capital of the World.”
The sculpture features the abbreviations for Tallahassee (TLH) and Florida State University (FSU), which hover above a contemporary white pedestal. The project was initiated by Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey as part of the city’s bicentennial celebration and was realized through collaboration with FSU alumni Bob and Gail Knight. The funding for the sculpture came from various sources, including the City of Tallahassee, the FSU Research Foundation, and the Friends of the First Florida Capitol.
The Mayor emphasized the city’s identity as a blend of creativity and innovation, noting the intersection of art and science that the sculpture exemplifies. The design and construction of “Maggie” were executed by artists from FSU’s Master Craftsman Studio, with Phil Gleason leading the project. Although the initial aim was to break a Guinness World Record with the sculpture, this goal was eventually set aside.
Gleason expressed a desire for viewers to recognize the significance of the sculpture in representing the partnership between Tallahassee and the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (MagLab). MagLab Director Kathleen Amm praised the collaboration, stating that the sculpture reflects the successful partnership among FSU, the city, and the MagLab.
In addition to its permanent location, “Maggie” will serve as a traveling exhibit in notable locations throughout Tallahassee. The unveiling coincided with the 2025 Motor, Drive Systems, and Magnetics Conference, which attracted industry leaders and researchers from around the world to discuss advancements in their field. The conference will conclude with the MagLab’s 30th annual open house on February 22, offering nearly 100 hands-on science activities for visitors.
The MagLab, known as the largest laboratory of its type and home to the world’s largest magnets, serves as a key player in the advancement of magnetic technology and research. With “Maggie” as a centerpiece, Tallahassee solidifies its role at the forefront of innovation and artistic expression in the realm of magnetics.
As attendees and residents admire “Maggie,” this sculpture not only symbolizes the scientific advancements occurring in the city but also emphasizes the importance of community collaboration and cultural identity. The blend of science, art, and local pride represented in “Maggie” underscores Tallahassee’s commitment to fostering an environment where creativity and technology coexist harmoniously.
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Tallahassee Unveils ‘Maggie,’ a Magnetic Levitating Sculpture
Additional Resources
- Tallahassee.com: Tallahassee Debuts Magnetic Levitating Sculpture
- Wikipedia: Magnetic Levitation
- The Famuan: Levitating Sculpture – A Sight to See
- Google Search: Magnetic Levitating Sculpture
- Tallahassee.com: City of Tallahassee, FSU to Unveil Sculpture
- Google Scholar: Magnetic Levitation
- Tallahassee.com: The Unveiling of Maggie
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Magnet
- Tallahassee.com: FSU Celebrates MagLab’s Science Eras
- Google News: Magnetic Levitation Southern USA
Author: STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER
The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
