After more than three decades with 1220 Exhibits, we’re celebrating the retirement of our very own Doug Zellman — a name that’s become practically synonymous with craftsmanship, creativity and dedication to his craft. Doug’s 33-year journey with us has been nothing short of remarkable. His fingerprints can be found on some of the most memorable museum experiences across the country.

Where Craftsmanship Meets Storytelling

Doug first joined 1220 as an Exhibit Designer, drawn to the challenge of bringing stories to life through physical spaces. Over the years, he wore just about every hat imaginable when working with artifacts. He managed projects, lead the graphics department, designed museums, and ultimately served as our in-house Artifact Specialist. Every role built on the one before it, giving Doug a rare, full-picture understanding of how an exhibit is developed from start to finish.

When asked about his favorite projects, Doug smiled as he remembered the Super Bowl section of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. “I got to handle Super Bowl rings,” he said — not a bad day at the office for any sports fan. Meeting Isaac Hayes during the Stax Museum project install was another ‘pinch me’ moment. The Auburn Sports Hall of Fame will also always hold a special place for him. It’s not just because he designed it, but because he got to personally install it too.

From the Smithsonian to Small-Town Treasures

Artifacts, of course, became the heart of Doug’s work. Out of the countless objects he’s handled in his career, one of his favorite collections came from the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center in Nebraska noting that their Native American artifacts and pioneer memorabilia was impressive. After decades in the field, Doug has just about seen it all — he’ll tell you that “most state museums have an iron lung and a dug-out canoe made from a log in their archives.” That mix of curiosity, humor, and deep respect for every artifact is exactly what made Doug such a trusted hand in preserving history.

Doug’s career took him all over the map from Atlanta (a personal favorite thanks to nearby friends) to Augusta’s exclusive Berkmans Place at the Masters, and all the way to Portland, Oregon, his farthest trip for a project. His largest job? The Oklahoma History Center, which showcased an incredible 2,000 artifacts, which he installed in just two months. His smallest artifact install was at The South Carolina Visitors Center featuring a single basket on display.

When looking back, Doug said the Smithsonian was a major milestone. “It was my first highbrow job; it was prestigious,” he recalled. But for him, the best part wasn’t the recognition, it was the process itself. “I enjoy designing the exhibits,” he said simply. That passion and genuine love for the work is what guided him through every role and every installation.

A Legacy in Museum Artifacts and Exhibit Design

Doug leaves behind not only an incredible legacy of world-class exhibits but also a team full of people who are better for having worked with him. We’re endlessly grateful for his 33 years of dedication. While we’ll miss him deeply, we couldn’t be happier to see him enjoy this next chapter. Congratulations, Doug — and thank you for everything.