Introduction
Your IB Visual Arts exhibition is more than a display of artworks — it’s a curated experience. Examiners notice not just the quality of your art, but also the professionalism of the space. Preparing your exhibition space thoughtfully can strengthen your coherence, highlight your best works, and make a lasting impression.
This guide will walk you through how to prepare your IB Visual Arts exhibition space effectively.
Step 1: Understand Your Space
- Measure walls and floors to know how much room you have.
- Note lighting sources like windows, ceiling lights, or spotlights.
- Identify restrictions (no nails, limited wall space, shared areas).
Knowing your limitations helps you plan effectively.
Step 2: Plan Your Layout
- Choose a flow: chronological, thematic, or media-based.
- Give large works space to stand out.
- Group smaller works together thoughtfully.
- Place sculptures or installations where viewers can walk around them.
Step 3: Focus on Lighting
Lighting can make or break an exhibition.
- Avoid glare on framed works.
- Use spotlights to highlight key pieces.
- Keep consistency across the space.
Step 4: Prepare Labels and Texts
- Print clean, uniform labels with title, medium, and dimensions.
- Place them consistently at eye level or beside works.
- Ensure they connect to your curatorial rationale.
Step 5: Consider the Viewer’s Experience
- Walk through your space as if you were an examiner.
- Ask: Does the layout make sense? Is the theme clear?
- Leave space between works so each can be appreciated.
Step 6: Do a Test Run
- Mock up your layout in advance using sketches or digital software.
- Test lighting and adjust placement.
- Take photos of the setup to evaluate balance and flow.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding with too many works.
- Ignoring lighting until the last minute.
- Inconsistent or messy labels.
- Poor spacing that hides or weakens artworks.
- Forgetting to connect layout to the curatorial rationale.
FAQs on Exhibition Space Preparation
Q1: Do examiners grade the space itself?
Not directly, but the space influences how professional and coherent your exhibition looks.
Q2: What if my space is very small?
Curate fewer, stronger works and arrange them carefully.
Q3: Can I use props or decorations in my space?
Only if they are part of your artworks. Avoid unnecessary extras.
Q4: Should I include seating or interactive elements?
Yes, if they support your theme. Otherwise, keep it simple.
Q5: Do I need to rehearse my exhibition setup?
Yes — practice setting up in advance to avoid stress on the final day.
Conclusion
Preparing your IB Visual Arts exhibition space is about creating a professional, coherent, and impactful environment. By understanding your space, planning your layout, managing lighting, and ensuring clear labels, you’ll elevate your artworks and impress examiners. Remember: the space is part of the exhibition — curate it as carefully as you curate your artworks.
