Exhibitions can be daunting and difficult, especially for the first time. However, there is no need to panic. Rather, treat it like a task and take in the enjoyment of accessing source materials, learning about them, and putting them together. It can be stressful, but here are a few tips to help you get through it!
1) Follow the 5 steps – There are 5 crucial steps that you should undertake for doing the exhibition- First, research, second, select the source material whether it is paintings, photographs, or objects. Getting a clear idea of where they will go, and how much space they will occupy are important. If you plan on putting paintings and photos on a wall especially, it is best to measure the walls first where things will go up, so you have an idea of the estimate sizes that you need to specify while blowing up. Thirdly, there is a whole process of printing captions and photos. Fourth, is the actual placing of all the objects. Fifth, while it is happening, the process of showing people around is something that one needs to take up.
2) REMAIN CALM- During the whole process, there can be a lot of problems, miscommunications and even people not doing the work they promised. There can be challenges and upheavals, and things will not always go your way. However, to gear through these while difficult amidst stress is also necessary. Don’t let it get to you, just calmly sort it out. Remember, it is not the end of the world if things have to be changed around.
3) Make it a shape-shifting exhibition- If you are skeptical of the criticism that can come your way, or the spectators’ making complaints about your exhibits. Don’t take it personally, rather remember that since you have curated it for the public, you will hear opinions. The solution is to make it a shape-shifting exhibition. Every day, make one change- maybe add an exhibit, shift a painting, or remove a painting, based on these opinions. This will make it more public-friendly, and will also be rewarding for you. After all, why should an exhibition be static?
4) Consult experts on the topic of your exhibition - Make sure during the research process to consult experts who know about your topic. This will make it easier for you how to go about curating, and will lead to better results!
5) Lastly, enjoy!- while taking opinions is important, don’t let criticism get you down! Remember, that you worked hard, so make sure to enjoy your success while it is on display!
