Write an exhibition review is an important piece of critical writing that art historians and consumers of visual culture read. The review is not simply a description of what you see, nor is it a recapitulation of the museum’s press release; instead, it is a thoughtful analysis of how the show communicates specific ideas or values based on how the curators have selected items to display, the organization of the objects, and the overall design of the exhibition. Your exhibition review will be based on one of the shows listed in the course schedule. This will also be the basis for your Discussion Leader role for one class meeting. Exhibition The Countless Aspects of Beauty at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens ________________________________________ Mechanics for Writing the Exhibition Review As you explore the online exhibition, take notes about what you notice. Your notes should cover what the general scope of the show is about, things that catch your attention or draw your eye into observe further, questions that you have about the objects, and the ways they are grouped together. Overall, you should have a clear idea about the curatorial themes and designs. When writing you essay, it must include: • An introduction that identifies what this show is about [scope] and where it is located. • An overall description of the show. [What is being shown? Are these paintings, sculptures, prints, etc.?] • What are the broad curatorial themes/ideas/concepts that the show tries to provide? Is there a specific narrative presented? • What are the curatorial decisions that have been made? How have they organized the show? • What are the design elements of the exhibition? [Colors, lighting, space, format, etc.] Did these elements help or hinder the viewer’s experience? • What were the show’s strengths and weaknesses? Give examples from the show to support your reading of the exhibition.
