Master the art of curating exhibitions that captivate, educate, and inspire! This course takes you behind
the scenes of exhibition design, teaching you the essential principles, practical strategies, and creative
techniques used by professional curators. Whether you're working on an art gallery show, museum exhibit,
or pop-up display, this course will guide you through the process of creating meaningful
and engaging experiences.
What You’ll Learn
The fundamentals of exhibition planning and storytelling.
Techniques for selecting and organizing artworks or objects.
The role of spatial design in creating an immersive experience.
Effective lighting, labeling, and signage strategies.
Insights into budgeting, logistics, and marketing for exhibitions.
Section 1: Introduction to Exhibition Design (30 mins)
Lecture 1.1: Welcome and Course Overview
Lecture 1.2: The Purpose and Power of Exhibitions
Lecture 1.3: Tools of the Trade: What Every Curator Needs
Section 2: Concept Development (1 hour)
Lecture 2.1: Finding the Story: Creating a Central Theme
Lecture 2.2: Research and Object Selection
Lecture 2.3: Case Study: A Well-Designed Exhibition Theme
Lecture 2.4: Exercise: Brainstorm Your Own Exhibition Concept
Section 3: Planning and Organization (1 hour 15 mins)/strong>
Lecture 3.1: Drafting a Curatorial Plan: Objectives, Timeline, and Budget
Lecture 3.2: Layout and Flow: Designing the Visitor Journey
Lecture 3.3: Categorizing and Grouping: Building a Logical Narrative
Lecture 3.4: Project: Create a Basic Exhibition Layout
Section 4: Designing the Space (1.5 hours)
Lecture 4.1: Principles of Spatial Design for Exhibitions
Lecture 4.2: Lighting Techniques to Enhance the Experience
Lecture 4.3: Display Materials and Methods: Traditional and Innovative Options
Lecture 4.4: Interactive Activity: Plan a Room Setup for an Exhibit
Section 5: Labeling and Signage (45 mins)
Lecture 5.1: Writing Effective Wall Labels and Captions
Lecture 5.2: Designing Signage That Guides Without Distracting
Lecture 5.3: Accessibility Considerations in Text and Design
Lecture 5.4: Exercise: Draft Label Copy for a Displayed Artwork
Section 6: Installation and Execution (1 hour)
Lecture 6.1: Managing Logistics: Shipping, Insurance, and Security
Lecture 6.2: Installation Day: Collaborating with Teams
Lecture 6.3: Troubleshooting Common Challenges
Lecture 6.4: Time-Lapse Demo: Installing a Small Exhibit
Section 7: Marketing and Audience Engagement (30 mins)
Lecture 7.1: Promoting Your Exhibition: Digital and Physical Strategies
Lecture 7.2: Creating Programs and Events to Complement the Exhibit
Lecture 7.3: Collecting Visitor Feedback to Improve Future Shows
Section 8: Reflecting on Success (30 mins)
Lecture 8.1: Evaluating the Impact of Your Exhibition
Lecture 8.2: Building Your Portfolio as a Curator
Lecture 8.3: Final Project: Present a Curatorial Proposal
Course Features
Downloadable Templates: Curatorial plan, budget spreadsheet, and label-writing guide.
Quizzes: Test your understanding of key concepts after each section.
Step-by-Step Demonstrations: Watch the instructor plan and execute an exhibition.
Bonus Content: Tips for virtual exhibitions and hybrid formats.
What You’ll Need
A sketchbook or digital tools for layout and planning.
Access to art or objects for practice exercises (optional).
Internet access for exploring additional resources and examples.
Certificate of Completion
Earn a certificate to showcase your mastery of abstract art techniques.
