Interpretive exhibitions tell stories. Storytelling is inherently a linear experience, yet exhibitions are presented in three-dimensional space. What techniques would you employ to guide visitor flow through a space so that the story unfolds in a meaningful way? How would you do this without designing a “forced march”? Or would you? The elements of discovery and self-selection are powerful tools in allowing visitors to follow their interests (or maybe just their limited time!). How does this impact one’s understanding of the story being told or the ability of the designer to craft the visitor experience? For an exhibition to be successful, must one read every label, study every object, watch every film, or engage with every interactive? Compare storytelling as conveyed via a book, a film, a play, an exhibition. What are the differences and similarities?

Bring your own ideas to contribute and get your burning questions answered as we share our experiences with designing for non-linear environment.

Registration for this event is required. Salons are a member benefit, and are open free to AIGA members.

Please plan to arrive at 7:30 AM to allow time to purchase breakfast refreshments and chat with other attendees. We will start promptly at 8:00 AM.

Teaism: Google Map

Event coordinator/contact: anita@aigadc.org

Bryan Sieling
Bryan is an exhibition designer, boy mechanic, tinkerer, collector of aged small things, and a student of the Theory of Multiples. Bryan began his career at age two or three observing his father write, draw, build, fix, laugh, curse, and restore old cars. Somehow this odd mix of early experiences inspired Bryan to pursue an actual paid career in museum work, prompted by a chance encounter with a small art museum thirty-one years ago. He’s currently employed as Design Chief for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, scheduled to open on the Mall in 2015.