Balancing Education and Entertainment in Exhibition Design
In the realm of exhibition design, striking the perfect balance between education and entertainment has become increasingly crucial for New Zealand’s museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. As visitor expectations evolve and technology advances, exhibition designers face the challenge of creating engaging experiences that inform and inspire while also providing an enjoyable and memorable visit.
The shift towards more interactive and immersive exhibitions has been gaining momentum in New Zealand over the past decade. Te Papa Tongarewa, the Museum of New Zealand, has been at the forefront of this movement, consistently pushing the boundaries of exhibition design to create experiences that are both educational and entertaining.
One of Te Papa’s most successful exhibitions in recent years, “Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War,” exemplifies this balance. The exhibition, created in collaboration with Weta Workshop, uses larger-than-life sculptures and interactive elements to tell the story of New Zealand’s involvement in the Gallipoli campaign during World War I. By combining historical artefacts with immersive storytelling techniques, the exhibition manages to educate visitors about this significant event in New Zealand’s history while also providing a deeply emotional and engaging experience.
The importance of storytelling in exhibition design cannot be overstated. Dr Bronwyn Labrum, Head of New Zealand and Pacific Cultures at Te Papa, emphasises that “storytelling is key to creating exhibitions that resonate with visitors. It’s not just about presenting facts and objects; it’s about weaving a narrative that connects with people on an emotional level”.
This approach to exhibition design aligns with the concept of “edutainment,” a term that combines education and entertainment. While some critics argue that this approach might trivialise important subjects, proponents believe that it can make learning more accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience.
The Auckland War Memorial Museum has also embraced this balanced approach in its recent renovations and new exhibitions. The museum’s “Tāmaki Herenga Waka: Stories of Auckland” gallery uses a combination of digital interactives, physical objects, and immersive environments to tell the story of Auckland’s diverse communities and history.
Dr David Gaimster, Chief Executive of Auckland Museum, notes that “our goal is to create exhibitions that not only inform but also inspire curiosity and engagement. We want visitors to leave with new knowledge, but also with a sense of wonder and a desire to learn more”.
However, achieving this balance is not without its challenges. Exhibition designers must carefully consider how to incorporate interactive and entertaining elements without overshadowing the educational content. Additionally, they must cater to a diverse audience with varying learning styles and interests.
One approach that has proven successful is the use of layered information. This allows visitors to engage with the content at different levels, depending on their interest and time constraints. For example, the Otago Museum’s “Tūhura Otago Community Trust Science Centre” offers hands-on exhibits that appeal to children and families, while also providing deeper scientific information for those who wish to delve further into the subjects.
The use of technology in exhibition design has also played a significant role in balancing education and entertainment. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences are becoming increasingly common in New Zealand museums. These technologies allow visitors to interact with historical or scientific concepts in ways that were previously impossible.
For instance, the Air Force Museum of New Zealand in Christchurch offers a VR experience that allows visitors to “fly” a World War II aircraft. This not only provides an entertaining experience but also gives visitors a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by pilots during that era.
However, it’s important to note that technology should not be used for its own sake. Dr Susan Waugh, Head of Science at Te Papa, cautions that “technology should always serve the story and the learning objectives. It’s a tool to enhance the visitor experience, not the main attraction”.
Another crucial aspect of balancing education and entertainment in exhibition design is the consideration of different learning styles. Some visitors prefer reading text panels, while others learn better through hands-on activities or audiovisual presentations. Successful exhibitions often incorporate a variety of engagement methods to cater to these different preferences.
The importance of this balance extends beyond just visitor satisfaction. In an increasingly competitive landscape, museums and cultural institutions must attract and retain visitors to remain viable. By creating exhibitions that are both educational and entertaining, these institutions can appeal to a broader audience and encourage repeat visits.
Moreover, engaging exhibitions can play a vital role in fostering a love for learning and cultural appreciation among younger generations. By making education enjoyable, museums can inspire lifelong learning and curiosity.
As New Zealand continues to grapple with important social and cultural issues, such as the ongoing process of reconciliation with Māori communities, exhibition design can play a crucial role in educating the public and fostering understanding. By presenting these complex topics in engaging and accessible ways, exhibitions can contribute to important national conversations.
In conclusion, balancing education and entertainment in exhibition design is both an art and a science. It requires careful consideration of content, audience, and engagement methods. As New Zealand’s cultural institutions continue to evolve, this balance will remain a key factor in creating meaningful and memorable experiences for visitors.
By embracing innovative design techniques, leveraging technology appropriately, and focusing on storytelling, New Zealand’s museums and galleries can continue to educate, entertain, and inspire visitors for generations to come. The future of exhibition design in Aotearoa New Zealand looks bright, promising experiences that are not only informative but also deeply engaging and enjoyable.