Methods of Exhibition Analysis

1. Why did you choose this topic? The idea for this book arose from a research gap. Since no comprehensive methods book on exhibition analysis was available to date, we decided to develop one ourselves. What began as an idea from us editors soon evolved into a collaborative work. Using the model of a Book in Progress, we gradually collected analytical approaches from a wide variety of authors, which were then developed into method papers with instructional character and refined through practical tests with users. 2. What new perspectives does your book offer? The process of creating the book revealed the diversity of perspectives on the exhibition as a medium. While for some authors, the exhibition as a curatorial setting is the main focus, others view exhibitions as places of public engagement or as opportunities for critical reflection on exhibition practice and its improvement. Our book thus offers methods of exhibition analysis from a cultural analysis, perception studies and practice-oriented perspective. 3. What makes your topic relevant for current research debates? When current research debates question how cultural institutions define themselves today and respond to changing societal conditions, this also raises the question of how exhibitions communicate with their audiences and what roles are assigned within the exhibition space. Exhibitions can still be understood as powerful media of display and public gathering places whose social and cultural implications need to be explored. 4. Choose one person you would like to discuss your book with! With someone who aims to analyze an exhibition with a particular research interest, but is still searching for the right method. With 19 methods on offer, our book provides a solid starting point for finding a suitable approach. New contexts of application, innovative method combinations or individual adaptations can, in turn, contribute to the book’s relevance and reach. 5. Your book summary in one sentence: A toolkit for exhibition analysis is ready for use.