Sunday, February 1, 2015

Vanessa German Bitter Root Exhibit

Functional Considerations:
There isn't a way to change the traffic flow through the doorway but the traffic flow was considered in the layout of sculptures on their pedestals. People were encouraged to walk around sculptures by having pedestals away from the walls, allowing a walk way between wall and pedestal, or by positioning sculpture in the middle. 
Exhibition materials are not really durable in terms of, if they fell over something could easily break. Otherwise I don't know what this question is asking. 
Few items were hung but the ones that were, were at appropriate heights. I think the only worrisome aspect was sculptures hanging over edge of pedestals. But there was ample space for anyone to move around said pedestal without needing to bump said sculpture. I believe a disabled person could experience most of the exhibit. The only issue would be the width of their wheelchair if they require one.
Yes the typography was easy to read.

Formal Considerations:
From what I recall, the font was fine. I don't know what else to say regarding this topic.
The similar colors of each piece provided visual unity throughout exhibit.
This exhibit had an energy do to its content that is consistent throughout the exhibit. I don't see any levels to it. 
I do see a visual style that I think is traditional for a higher art, therefore bringing the art to the same level, regardless of what the art is considered anywhere else.

Conceptual Considerations:
Embrace your history, embrace diversity.
I think you could walk into the exhibit and go wherever but there was cues to take a certain path.
I feel as though the path has more to do with how the room is shaped and that one might miss a piece because they take a different route. I don't know how to fix this other than do what you can to make a route each time based on the type of work. When we have had 2D work, it is easier to create a specific path. I would try putting 3D in the middle in a line to allow people to view pieces on one side going to the back wall and then they can see the backside on the way out. This may be totally frowned upon according to normal practices, I don't know.

Visitor Observations:
The exhibit is talking about a history of racism, which may not seem as relevant today to some, particularly a young white Montanan. I do think the images are striking and could bring up emotion due to this aspect, which may intrigue many people regardless of race. 
I think this exhibit would draw more people over 25 because these people may have lived during these times of racism, or these people just have more life experience to bring to the table.
I didn't see anything set up as a means to gain feedback from the visitors, other than a guest book. 
I would change the height of the ceiling because this can change how big the space feels and I hate how the room feels like a cave where the art is hidden.

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