Anatomy of an Exhibit
What goes into planning and creating an Exhibit:
- Artifact (s): The Heart of the exhibit
- Display Cases and Preservation: Protecting the artifact.
- Graphics and Signage: Directing the exhibit.
- Lighting and Ambiance: Setting the stage for the exhibit.
- Interactive Elements: Engaging the Senses.
- Interpretive Materials: Unraveling the Stories of the artifact(s).
- Environmental Controls and Security Measures: Preserving the collection.
- Visitor Amenities and Accessibility: Welcoming All!
- Educational Resources and Outreach: Extending the Experience
- Exhibit Design and Fabrication: Bringing the exhibit to life.
- Funding: Ranges from $1,500 to $5,000+
Standard elements to create an Exhibit.
- Funding: Budget
- Staff members
- Artifact(s): Research: Writing, Editing.
- Locate and Space
- Printing cost
- Frames
- Fabric
- Custom work
- Half Mannequin(s)
- Full-size Mannequin(s)
- Wall-mount acrylic sign holders
- Standing acrylic sign holders
- Perspex ‘risers’
- Shelves and Brackets
- Object(s)Mounts and Supports
- Securing items: wire acid-free tap, Museum wax
- Labels and Interpretive Materials: Display boards, posters
Welcome to the Museum’s Anatomy of an Exhibit, visitors often inquire about the inner workings of our museum and the process behind creating our exhibits. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Museum of the American G.I. is passionately dedicated to preserving the profound legacy of American servicemen and women. With a dedicated team of both full-time and part-time staff, we invest our expertise in every facet of exhibit development, spanning from permanent installations to temporary showcases. While the investment to bring an exhibit to life can vary, ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, our unwavering commitment remains steadfast: to craft unforgettable experiences that honor our nation’s heroes and educate and inspire our visitors.
To begin with, it is crucial to acknowledge that each exhibit is unique; they all have unique items and stories to tell, and some are permanent, and some are temporary. Furthermore, our team is small and comprises a blend of dedicated full-time and part-time staff, each contributing their expertise to ensure every exhibit shines.
At the core of every exhibit lies a narrative—a story waiting to be told. These narratives are methodically crafted and researched to offer insight and foster a deeper connection between visitors and the artifacts they encounter.
Indeed, the anatomy of our exhibits is akin to a Military mission—each element works together to preserve, honor, and educate. The amount of time and effort needed to complete each exhibit varies based on factors such as its size, complexity, research, staff, and funding available to the museum. As for the investment required, the cost of bringing an exhibit to life typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000+. The Museum utilizes various funding sources such as grants, individual donations, event and admission revenue, merchandise sales, and special events and fundraisers.
Overall, completing an exhibit requires a coordinated effort involving multiple resources and people, often spanning months or even years.