Mount Making

Term from Museum Curation industry explained for recruiters

Mount Making is a specialized skill in museums where professionals create custom supports, stands, and display structures for artifacts and artworks. These supports ensure objects are safely displayed while considering preservation, aesthetics, and visitor experience. Think of mount makers as the architects for how museum pieces are physically presented - they're the ones who figure out how to securely display everything from tiny jewelry to massive sculptures. Similar terms used in the field include "exhibition preparation" or "artifact support specialist."

Examples in Resumes

Designed and fabricated Mount Making solutions for delicate archaeological artifacts

Created custom Mounts for traveling exhibition of Ming Dynasty ceramics

Supervised Museum Mount production for new permanent gallery installation

Typical job title: "Mount Makers"

Also try searching for:

Museum Preparator Exhibition Preparator Museum Mount Maker Exhibition Technician Collections Care Specialist Museum Specialist Exhibition Designer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach designing mounts for a traveling exhibition with various environmental conditions?

Expected Answer: A senior mount maker should discuss risk assessment, material selection for different climates, vibration concerns during transport, and creating adjustable mounts that work in multiple venues while maintaining object safety.

Q: Tell me about a challenging mount making project you've managed and how you solved complex problems.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate project management skills, problem-solving abilities, team coordination, and advanced knowledge of materials and techniques for difficult mounting situations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What materials do you prefer for mount making and why?

Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss various materials (metals, acrylics, fabrics) and their properties, including conservation-grade materials, and explain when to use specific materials based on object needs.

Q: How do you ensure your mounts are both secure and aesthetically pleasing?

Expected Answer: Should explain balancing security with visual appeal, techniques for minimal visual impact, and methods for testing mount stability while protecting the object.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic tools and equipment are essential for mount making?

Expected Answer: Should be familiar with common hand tools, measuring devices, basic fabrication equipment, and safety protocols when working with various materials.

Q: How do you determine the appropriate support points for an object?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of object weight distribution, stress points, and basic principles of support while preventing damage to artifacts.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic hand tool operation
  • Simple mount construction
  • Understanding of museum environment
  • Knowledge of common display materials

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex mount design
  • Material selection expertise
  • Exhibition installation experience
  • Object handling certification

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project management
  • Advanced fabrication techniques
  • Training and supervision
  • Conservation awareness

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on experience with object handling
  • Lack of knowledge about conservation materials
  • Poor understanding of safety protocols
  • No experience working in museum environments