Graphic Design Methods of an Exhibition: A Case Study on a Science Museum Exhibition for 6 to 9 Years old Children

Abstract

The objectives of this research were 1) to study the approach of graphic design for science museum exhibition aiming towards the children audiences, 2) to propose the new approach of the graphic design according to the social and cultural context, in order to motivate the learning of Thai children from age 6-9 years old, and 3) to design the exhibition graphic module aiming towards the learning of Thai children from the same age within the temporary exhibition space. The research used the mixed method approach by gathering both the quantitative and qualitative data. The conceptual framework included 3 issues, which were the graphic design, exhibition design, and children learning. The research was divided into 3 phases. Phase I, the field observation of 28 exhibitions within the UK, Japan, and Thailand, and the interview with 8 experts to study the concept and approach in graphic design for the science museum exhibition. Phase II, the experiment with 90 children to find the suitable graphic design approach to motivate the learning. The results found that the most preferred graphic image of children was the realistic representation with details (56.7%), with medium size (47.8%), grouped together (68.9%), with detail or pattern on object and on background (73.3%), with surreal decoration inspired by the Art Nouveau style (47.8%), and vivid color which feels fun (42.2%). And phase III, the design of the module exhibition within the temporary exhibition space, used the design approach followed by the results. The evaluation was carried out by 6 experts, and also observed the learning behavior of the 32 children and asked about their satisfaction. The results found that graphic design of exhibitions in all countries with the consistent in several items such as illustration styles, visual symbols, graphic layouts, etc., but the role of the graphic is different because of the socio-cultural context of each country. The design concept of the exhibition for children is touching and safety. The artistic of design happens from the expression about the children’s nature with forms appropriate to their age. Both Art Nouveau and Semi-abstract styles can draw more attention from children than the representational or narrative style.

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