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.
​
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.
​
Front-End Evaluation and Planning
​
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