For this month’s episode of Public History in a Virtual Age, we are diving into museum exhibits. When touring, or digitally browsing, a finished exhibit, you might not consider the years of development that go into its creation. From the initial concept, there are countless steps, and numerous individuals, involved in the process of translating history into an exhibit format; script writing, fundraising, spatial and graphic design, mount making, fabrication, installation, and more! Today’s guests will shed some light on this exciting process and explore the benefits and challenges of interpreting history in a museum setting.
First, we will speak with Alison Mann, a Public Historian at the National Museum of American Diplomacy. As the museum is currently in development, she will guide us through what it takes to create a museum, from determining an overarching theme and throughline to writing concise and accessible exhibit labels. She will also discuss the use of technology and experiential elements, as well as how museums can approach their topics in moments of partisan division.
We will then speak with three members of the Smithsonian Exhibits team; Deputy Director Matthew O’Connor, Head of Exhibit Design Juanita Wichienkuer, and exhibit developer and writer John Powell. They will discuss the multiple year process of developing an exhibit for the Smithsonian, including the importance of considering your audience and the collaborative nature of the Smithsonian’s in-house Exhibits team. They will also reflect on the pandemic’s impact on museum exhibits and the transition to virtual experiences.
For more information, visit theitps.org.