Exhibition Text

Term from Art Galleries industry explained for recruiters

Exhibition Text refers to the written materials that accompany art displays in galleries and museums. This includes wall labels, artwork descriptions, artist statements, and educational materials that help visitors understand the artwork. These texts are crucial because they bridge the gap between the artwork and viewers, making art more accessible to the general public. Writers who create Exhibition Text need to balance being informative with being easily understandable, as these texts serve both art experts and casual visitors.

Examples in Resumes

Wrote compelling Exhibition Text for major retrospective show reaching 10,000+ visitors

Developed clear and engaging Exhibition Text and Gallery Text for contemporary art exhibitions

Created accessible Wall Text and Exhibition Text for permanent collection

Collaborated with curators to produce bilingual Exhibition Text and Exhibition Labels

Typical job title: "Exhibition Text Writers"

Also try searching for:

Museum Writer Gallery Text Writer Exhibition Content Developer Interpretive Writer Gallery Interpretation Specialist Museum Content Specialist Exhibition Text Coordinator

Where to Find Exhibition Text Writers

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop an exhibition text strategy for a large museum with diverse audiences?

Expected Answer: Should discuss creating multi-level content for different audiences, accessibility considerations, coordinating with various departments, and measuring visitor engagement and understanding.

Q: How do you balance scholarly accuracy with public accessibility in exhibition texts?

Expected Answer: Should explain approaches to simplifying complex concepts without losing accuracy, using plain language principles, and working with curators to maintain academic integrity while ensuring public understanding.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you approach writing text for different types of exhibitions?

Expected Answer: Should discuss adapting writing style for different art periods, audiences, and exhibition types (permanent vs temporary), and understanding of word count guidelines and accessibility standards.

Q: What is your process for editing and revising exhibition text?

Expected Answer: Should explain collaboration with curators and educators, gathering feedback, multiple revision rounds, and ensuring consistency across all exhibition materials.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the key components of good exhibition text?

Expected Answer: Should mention clarity, readability, engaging opening sentences, appropriate length, and basic formatting principles for wall labels and gallery texts.

Q: How do you write for visitors who may have no art background?

Expected Answer: Should discuss using simple language, avoiding jargon, providing context, and making connections to everyday experiences.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic writing and editing
  • Understanding of museum guidelines
  • Knowledge of art history
  • Ability to write clear descriptions

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced writing for diverse audiences
  • Project management
  • Collaboration with curators
  • Multi-platform content development

Senior (5+ years)

  • Exhibition strategy development
  • Team leadership
  • Educational program integration
  • Accessibility standards expertise

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Poor writing samples
  • Lack of museum or gallery experience
  • No knowledge of accessibility guidelines
  • Unable to write for general audiences
  • No understanding of different audience needs