How to Make an Exhibition (25 Jun)

This two-part program commences with an illustrated lecture on how to develop an exhibition from ideation to launch. Parameters include topic selection, refining scope, research trips, selection of artists and artworks, artist agreements, loans, insurance, shipping, exhibition design, interpretive writing, labels, promotion, opening reception and public programs.

Invoking the title of this event  i.e. “making an exhibition,” and using the current Founders’ show as a case study – David Garneau: Dark Chapters and Reading the Ruins –  the main focus will be on the physical aspects of structuring an exhibition.

Key topics include designing and building out the gallery, scale modelling, positioning artworks, artefacts and signage, accommodating visitors, and hosting events. Led by Founders’ Managing Curator, Dick Averns, attendees will then visit the gallery to see the exhibition and design of both shows, including his curated premiere of Reading the Ruins.

Additional context comes through learning from one of Canada’s most respected contemporary artists, on a large scale. With an expansive track record of art, writing and curating, David Garneau is an internationally renowned Indigenous artist, and Governor General’s Award winner.

Reading the Ruins is particularly notable for its inclusion of items from UCalgary’s military collection of North-West Mounted Police era artefacts: these appear in Garneau’s newest paintings and the referent objects are exhibited alongside the canvases in the gallery. In this sense, the making of the exhibition is not just about positioning art and artefacts in the gallery, but more a remaking of the Museums’ collection and purpose, both within its own walls and beyond previous historical sensibilities.

Part 2 of How to Make an Exhibition will take place Thu 30 July, 2:30 – 4:00 pm

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Image:

Founders’ Gallery exhibition maquette, 1:25scale

Partial view of David Garneau: DarkChapters

Image credit: Dick Averns, 2026

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Included with regular admission. Registration not required.