Exhibition Design

A survey of the conceptual themes and practical concerns―display, lighting, color, sound, and graphics―of exhibition design. Today exhibitions have to compete in an increasingly sophisticated leisure market. Consequently, the way in which the contemporary exhibition is designed is changing fast; previously aloof cultural institutions are making use of technologies and techniques more commonly associated with film and retail. Exhibition-making is now synonymous with image-making, communication, and the creation of a powerful experience. Exhibition Design features examples of a wide variety of exhibitions from around the world, from major trade and commerce fairs to well-known fine-art institutions and small-scale artist-designed displays. The introduction gives an historical perspective on the development of exhibitions and museums, with particular focus on the developments of the twentieth century. The book is divided into two parts: Approaches and Techniques. Approaches is devoted to the conceptual themes of narrative space, performative space, and simulated experience. Techniques covers the practical concerns of display, lighting, color, sound, and graphics. To illustrate these themes the book features photographs, drawings, and diagrams of exhibitions from around the world, including the work of such internationally renowned architects and designers as Ralph Appelbaum Associates, Atelier Brückner, Casson Mann, Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid, Imagination, METStudio, and Jean Nouvel.