CALL FOR PAPERS FOR THE FALL 2018 ISSUE OF EXHIBITION
Exhibition is a journal of exhibition theory & practices for museum professionals, published by NAME, the National Association for Museum Exhibition.
"INTERACTIVITY"
Proposals due January 4, 2018
Research suggests that interactivity in museum exhibitions fosters learning, engagement, and understanding. And, too, interactivity is a buzzword that excites many a board and fundraising pitch. But what really makes a great interactive? And when might the interactive quest lead us astray?
In this issue, we take on interactivity (which we are defining as a physical interaction on the part of a visitor in a physical exhibition) in its many forms: digital and analog; simple and complex; high budget and D.I.Y.; immersive or participatory; and more.
Papers might discuss best practices in conceptualizing, developing, designing, testing, and building successful interactive elements; how to tailor interactive elements to different audiences and learning styles; how to create interactives that promote conversation and collaboration between visitors; the role of accessibility and Universal Design; how to determine when and if an interactive is the best choice to convey an interpretive point or engage a specific audience; or something else.
While typically the journal seeks papers of 2,000 words in length accompanied by four to five high-resolution images, for this issue we will consider approaches that use fewer words in favor of more images.
Articles might focus on a specific exhibition or provide an overview of practices. In all cases, articles must be both descriptive and analytical; should describe the interpretive and visitor goals behind an element/s; and evaluation, even if informal, must evidence arguments for the strengths and weaknesses of the project.
The exhibitions/installations analyzed can be of any size, and take place in any of a variety of spaces: museums of all disciplines, historical sites, galleries, institutions that collect and display living collections, outdoor public spaces, or other physical environments. Proposals might come from designers, architects, developers, interpretive planners, curators, writers, educators, collection managers, or others who create and contribute to exhibitions.
Proposals of 250 words maximum (submitted as Word documents) must:
- tell how the proposed article would relate to the issue's theme;
- indicate the approaches, strategies, or knowledge that readers would take away from the article;
- convey how the article would raise questions or illuminate larger issues that are widely applicable (especially if the proposal focuses on a single project or institution);
- take into account that articles will be expected to provide critical, candid discussions about issues and challenges; and
- include a proposed title.
DEADLINES AND INFORMATION
Proposals are due January 4, 2018. Along with your proposal, briefly describe your background and your qualifications for writing the article (please do not include resumes or cvs).
Our editorial advisory board will vet proposals in a blind review, and you will be notified of acceptance or non-acceptance. If your proposal is accepted, articles will be due March 30, 2018.
PLEASE SEND ALL PROPOSALS VIA EMAIL TO:
Ellen Snyder-Grenier (esnydergrenier@yahoo.com/" rel="noopener">esnydergrenier@yahoo.com), Editor, Exhibition.
Submissions from colleagues and students around the world are welcomed and encouraged.
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Ellen Snyder-Grenier
Editor, Exhibition/Independent Exhibition Developer and Writer
Rutherford NJ
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