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EXHIBIT DEVELOPMENT

The development of both static and interactive exhibition, signage and way-finding follows a process which mirrors the scientific process and engineering design process, both of which are important foundations in curriculum framework. 

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I have over twenty-five years of project management and development experience with some

of the largest organizations in North America – below is a glimpse at my process. 

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Front-End Evaluation and Planning 

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Exhibit development planning begins with research – learning the science of a particular topic, working with content advisors, key stakeholders and community partners, brainstorming to

produce a short list of possible exhibit themes & storylines and a rough list of potential ideas. 

 

Formative Evaluation and Iterative Prototyping 

 

Experience shows that this early investment is more than recouped in cost savings at later stages. Engineering questions can be worked out early on and controls or concepts can be adjusted - avoiding expensive mistakes in communication delivery is key. 

 

Iterative prototyping is driven by evaluation, which looks for markers of a variety of learning outcomes. Learning outcomes can include: evidence of visitors using science practices, evidence of family learning, open-ended exploration and include behavioral observation, conversational analysis, visitor interviews and “thinking out loud”. 

 

Final Exhibit Design & Fabrication 

 

While this stage is time-consuming and costly, conceptually it is the process of dressing, editing and crafting copy and message. A back-and-forth between all 3D design of exhibits and 2D design of graphics, labels and signs is constant. With a vast network of specialized vendors, builders, artisans and craftsmen, I am comfortable taking the reigns of development, production and fabrication.

 

Remedial Evaluation 

 

Once the exhibit is installed, unforeseen issues may arise, often around maintenance, and sometimes with learning outcomes. I help to recommend retention of a small percent of your budget for further evaluation and modifications suggested by evaluation. 

Recent Projects

 

Z Nation / SyFy - Curated Exhibit

Meridian International, D.C. - International Exhibition: Dubai

Artist Matt Jones  -  Coffee Table Book

The Cradle of Forestry, USA  -  Forestry Exhibits

Pisgah National Forest, NC -  Way-finding

Museum of the Cherokee, NC - Historical Exhibits

City of Hendersonville, NC  -  Forward, Native American History

Biltmore Inc. -  Historical Exhibit on the Vanderbuilts

Morikami Museum, FL  -  Japanese Bonsai Exhibit

Paul J Ceiner Botanical Garden, NC  -  Interpretive Master Planning, Way-finding, Print Media

City of Asheville, NC  -  Sustainability Interpretation

Evergreen Charter Schools, NC -  Eco Trail and Rain Gardens

Petronas Twin Towers Museum - Science Exhibits, Kuala Lumpur

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