Many of us enjoy visits to museums and art galleries perhaps just for a general ‘look around’, or a specific exhibit or display may have come to our attention that is of particular interest. These places can be large establishments and house any number of different subjects and areas. The use of museum graphics and wayfinding signs can be a big help to visitors once inside, in finding the best and most effective way around the building and its’ exhibits:
Museums Are a Learning Experience
When you visit a museum, it’s not only for an entertainment experience, but one of the things you might expect is to perhaps learn something new about a particular subject or period. Museum trips are also usually learning and educational experiences! Clever use of graphics displays around the museum can serve to elevate the displays and exhibits, therefore enhancing the experience for the visitor. Large graphics displays and pictures can help further explain and illustrate aspects of the actual exhibit items. Informing and entertaining visitors at the same time. Enhancing the visitor experience is likely to encourage them to tell others about their visit and make recommendations to friend’s and family to take advantage of the museum facilities. The right use of graphics can also act as a marketing tool whilst adding to the enjoyment of the individual visitor.
Use of Banners
In order for people to benefit from and enjoy the experience of wandering around a museum, you need to attract them there in the first place! Attracting more visitors is the first part of the journey that museum graphics can help with. Large format graphics boldly displayed on vinyl banners can be a spectacular visual advert. They are guaranteed to catch the eye and draw the attention of the public, inviting them to visit the museum and explore further! Likewise, wall and window graphics around the building can pique the interest of passing footfall and entice people to stop and consider going into the museum.
Directional Signage to Assist Visitors
One of the most important and useful applications of museum graphics is directional signage. The basic task of these wayfinding signs is offering practical information and help in guiding visitors to the entrances, exits, amenities, gift shops etc. But this form of museum signage can offer a positive boon to the overall visit too. Museums may have many different displays on in different parts of the museum, or often have a major display that, for best effect, should be viewed in a specific order. Clever use of floor and wall wayfinding signs can guide visitors around the building and the displays in the most effective way, helping with both the understanding and enjoyment of the overall experience.
A Meaningful Addition
As mentioned, clever use of museum signage can enhance many aspects of the exhibitions and a visitor’s experience. The information displayed, and the visual presence of this signage can add more meaning to the overall display. Wall graphics can be used to create a timeline, or chronological journey through the different exhibits, creating a more understandable story of the items on display. Vinyl signs displayed alongside sculptures or paintings can inform visitors about each specific item they are viewing, perhaps highlighting specific aspects of the piece that an ‘untrained’ eye might otherwise overlook. A combination of both wall and floor graphics can add depth and greater meaning to an exhibit by creating a more three-dimensional illustration of the piece.
It is always worthwhile speaking to a professional print company who can give you full information on the different types of signage and the most effective use and application of them for your business needs and arena.
John E Wright
If you manage print marketing for a museum, gallery or visitor center and want to discuss your requirements, or talk to us about our design service, simply use our contact form to send your questions through to our sales team. Or alternatively, call our head office on: 0115 950 6633.