Learning Opportunities

Gallery Management

Course Description

Instruction in basic techniques of gallery management, exhibition planning, design installation of exhibitions, lighting and corresponding aesthetic concerns. Students will participate fully in the running of the Hodson Gallery: planning the gallery season, selecting exhibitors, writing contracts and news releases, correspondence and marketing, hanging and lighting exhibitions and hosting the receptions and lectures. 

Instructional Objectives

1. To understand the basic techniques and philosophies of exhibition design. 
2. To develop a basic understanding of aesthetic and technical considerations in the mounting and display of collections. 
3. To develop an understanding of management issues involved in the successful operation of a gallery. 
4. To introduce the student to a range of private and public collections. 
5. To teach the student how to identify the thrust of a collection, its strong points and the intent of the collector. 
6. To introduce basic methods used in documentation and cataloging of collections. 
7. To develop writing and computer skills required for the public relations needs of a gallery. 
8. To enhance visualization and three dimensional thinking skills and creative problem solving.

Evaluation Criteria

1. Attendance at weekly one-hour class, and at the hanging, taking down and reception for all exhibitions. 
2. Verbal class participation. 
3. Participation in all aspects of gallery management. 
4. Evaluation of writing of news releases and other documents necessary to gallery management. 
5. Compilation of an activity and resource notebook. 

Resources

Private and public museums and galleries 

Victoroff. Visual Artist's Business and Legal Guide 
Klein, Larry. Exhibits: Planning and Design. Madison Square Press, New York 1986 
Witteborg, Lothar. A Practical Guide for Temporary Exhibitions. Smithsonian Institution, 1981 
Karp and Lavine. Exhibiting Cultures Smithsonian Institution, 1991. 
Neal, Arminta. Exhibits for the Small Museum, American Association for State and Local History, 1976 

Letter Grade Designation

A   Mastery of course objectives, exceptional knowledge and understanding of subject matter and demonstrated excellence in the application of theory and technique on assigned projects and outstanding craftsmanship. 

B   Mastery of course objectives, above average knowledge and understanding of subject matter and above average craftsmanship. 

C   Mastery of course objectives, acceptable knowledge and understanding of subject matter, application of theory and technique on assigned projects and acceptable craftsmanship.