How an exhibition becomes visible: the First week of install…
As we begin to get ready up for this year’s Out of Sight Out of Mind exhibition, we wanted to take you behind the scenes, making visible some aspects of the work that can sometimes go unseen. In line with the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival (SMHAF) theme ‘In/Visible’, we’re lifting the curtain on the setup process—from installation to curation—and celebrating the dedicated team effort that goes into creating each unique exhibition.
Day 1: Happy hand in day!!!
For some this can be one of the most exciting and anticipated days. We get to meet some of the exhibitors in person as they drop off their artworks, many of which we’ve only seen in digital form up until this point. For months, we’ve gotten to know these pieces through meetings and conversations, so seeing them in the flesh brings a new sense of connection. Hand-in day is also a chance for the artists to share the stories and extra details about their work, setting the tone for the exhibition and the many days of installation ahead.
Day 2: Getting set up and settled in.
After a successful (but long!) hand-in day. The setup officially begins! Before the first artwork is hung or placed, we start with the basics: creating a cozy and functional team room. A well-stocked snack station, a tea/coffee corner, and a comfy sofa setup might seem like small details, but they’re vital for keeping energy levels high during the long days ahead.
With refreshments ready, we dive into the process of getting to know each artwork up close. Every piece has its own character, and understanding how they’ll work together in the space is a big part of The Curation Team’s job.
Day 3: Team Bake-Off and Curation Conundrums
Up and down. Down and up. Back and forth, left a bit right a bit. There’s still a lot of moving about to be done before any artworks find their place in this year exhibition.
But after a bit of heavy lifting, and thoughtful discussions it’s time for a bit more team bonding! Our unofficial Team Bake-Off fuels yet more creative combinations.
Key Lime Pie… Biscoff base….Banana bread?
Creative combinations inspiring and recharging the Team as we move into the critical task of curation. The ‘invisible’ work of curation can be challenging as we discuss possibilities for where each artwork could go and how they might interact with one another. The many meetings held during the run up to the exhibition to help provide background information and form a plan (of sorts!).
It’s not just about placing things randomly—it’s about telling a coherent story that flows through the space, highlighting both the diversity and the connections between the different pieces.. We spend hours debating and rearranging, sometimes needing fresh eyes (and fresh cake!) to solve tricky curation puzzles.
Day 4: Plinth painting perfection.
A key part of setting up the exhibition is getting the display elements just right. Today, is the beginning of the painting process. Preparing and painting plinths and walls to showcase the artworks to their full potential. These little details, though often unnoticed, are crucial in making sure the pieces stand out and are presented in the best possible way. Well equipped and fashionably sporting the most flattering overall this painting team are all-over this painting mission!!!
Day 5: Tired team? Tremendous team!
As the first week draws to a close, we’re feeling a little tired, but also thrilled to see everything start to come together. It’s been a week of hard work, but our tremendous team has pulled through with creativity, laughter, and a shared sense of purpose. We’ve made the invisible visible—not only in the artworks themselves but also in the dedication and collaboration that goes into organising this exhibition.
Much like our step count for the week, Team moral and mood are on the up, seeing things start to come together. The work is by no means done, but its well under way, ready to finalise and finish next week before welcoming everyone to the Launch Event 6-8pm, Tuesday 8 October 2024, Summerhall.
