how to start a museum essay

How to Start Off an Essay About My Experience at the Museum

You may enjoy taking a field trip to a museum, but you might not know what to do when asked to write about the experience. There are four steps to beginning an essay on the topic “my experience at the museum” that are similar to the steps to creating any essay. These steps include forming a thesis, developing an outline, determining a point of view and crafting an introduction.

Explore this article

• Thesis Statement
• Point of View
• Introduction

1 Thesis Statement

Before you being writing, you will create a thesis. A thesis statement is a claim about your essay topic, usually written in 25 words or less. Without a thesis, your essay will have no direction. Each thesis should have two parts -- a topic and a controlling idea. Fortunately, the topic for this essay already exists -- “my experience at the museum.” To develop a controlling idea, your angle on the topic, consider what you want your audience to know about your experience at the museum. For example, you might write, "My experience at the museum taught me that native crafts are under-appreciated."

An outline is a guide organizing the main ideas of your essay. There are many kinds of outlines, but the Alphanumeric outline is the most common. It contains a series of topics listed by Roman numeral, and underneath those topics, details are listed by number and sub-details listed by alphabetical order. An example of this is: I. American Indian Crafts, 1. Dream Catchers, A. Sioux Tribe, B. Cherokee Tribe. Other forms of outlines include decimal outlines and full sentence outlines. No matter what kind of outline you use, plan your main ideas before you begin writing. This will help once you actually start writing your essay.

3 Point of View

Point of view is the perspective from which your essay is written. There are three main points of view: first, second and third. First person uses “I.” Second person uses “you," "we," "us” and “our.” Third person uses “he," "she," and "one.” Academic essays typically use third person, while less formal expository essays typically use first or second person. If you are writing for a class, check with your instructor to see which point of view he or she prefers. If you are writing for pleasure, the point of view you use is up to you!

4 Introduction

Once you have planned your essay, you can begin writing. Your first paragraph will be your introduction. In an introduction, you create an interesting sentence to intrigue your readers. This is called a "hook." You can use a surprising fact or statistic or ask a question. For instance, “When you think about art in the Louvre or Met, do you consider native crafts?” Then list a few sentences giving a brief overview of what you plan to address in your essay. Last, you will state your thesis.

• 1 Purdue Online Writing Lab: Types of Outlines and Samples
• 2 Grammar Girl: What is Point of View
• 3 The Writing Center: Thesis Statements

About the Author

Joy Dora has been writing since 2001 and has a master of fine arts in creative writing. She has worked as a copywriter for many prominent online brands, and has also taught college composition and high school English.

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• A Visit to a Museum - Long and Short Essay

Essay on A Visit to a Museum

We get to see a number of museums all over the world. India itself has several museums. A Visit to a Museum Essay in English is provided below for kids studying in class 5 and above. It is written in an easy to understand language for the convenience of kids. After reading the paragraph on A Visit to a Museum the kids will be able to write a 200 word essay on A Visit to a Museum or A Visit to a Museum 150 words paragraph on their own.

Long Essay on A Visit to a Museum

A building in which the objects of historical, cultural, artistic, and scientific interest are kept for the public display is known as a museum. It is a house of knowledge that makes us aware of the history, civilization, culture, religious practices, lifestyle, architecture, and art of the country. It lets us peep into the ancient socio-political, economic, cultural, and religious life of the people of a country.

A museum is a house of treasures filled with antiques. It holds the archaeological collectibles and artifacts that define a country’s culture and civilization. The historical panorama, the art and architecture, and the religions and relics of a country are curated and displayed in a museum. It can be said that any museum is a miniature reflection of a country’s past and ancient times. A vivid picture of the traditions, customs, and conventions of the country is showcased by a museum. 

I got a golden opportunity to visit the famous historic National Museum in New Delhi. The museum building is robust and majestic. The museum has various departments that have collectibles and artifacts on different subjects and historical periods on display. I saw numerous images, articles, sculptures, and scriptures– palm leaf and rock engravings and many other articles of great value and interest as we entered the ground floor of the museum. The entire museum is divided into different departments like the archaeological division, anthropological division, display section, etc.

On going to the first floor we saw paintings, murals, charts amongst the various other things. There were manuscripts in different languages on display. We saw various ancient weapons, robes, and dresses on display. One of the corners is dedicated to the numismatics section. This section has coins from different periods put on display.

There are the realistic paintings of Ellora caves alongside beautiful replicas of the Ajanta frescoes in one hall. In addition to these, the paintings depicting the lives of Lord Krishna, Lord Rama, and Lord Buddha through scriptures and charts are also put on display. One could truly discover the glorious history of India after having a look at this section.

We saw the remains of the Indus Valley Civilization on the second floor. There are the excavations from Harappa, Mohenjodaro, Lothal, Kalibanga, and Ropar put on display. The broken pitchers, toys, stones, beads, skulls, etc. reflect a lot about the civilization of those times. We were really surprised to find out how advanced that civilization was.

The third floor belongs to the military equipment section. The weapons from the ancient times, such as the spears and pruning hooks, swords and sheaths, shields and helmets, different types of dresses of the commanders and generals from the past ages are showcased. It was a thrilling experience. Seeing all the equipment and attires of the past heroes of our nation was too inspiring for us.

The whole museum is a treasure trove of the history of India. You learn about the history of great men of India and their morals. The laurels, legends, and historical facts are connected with an entire gamut of literature and the life of India. Whether they were poets or prose writers, scientists or galaxy-gazers, dancers or dramatists, musicians or doctors, songsters or sculptors, lawgivers, or lexicographers, you get to experience their lives from the past through the remains curated and put on display.

Short Essay on A Visit to a Museum

A place where old relics are kept on display for the public is known as a museum. A visit to a museum expands our knowledge of the past. I had a chance to visit the National Museum in New Delhi. A friend accompanied me to the museum. It is a huge building divided into different sections. There are various exhibits in each section.

We saw the stars in our galaxy first. The stars are painted on the ceiling of the dome. We felt like we were in the galaxy of stars for real. We then moved on to another section that had weapons of ancient times. They were arranged in a manner to depict the battle scenes. The household goods from ancient times were kept in the adjacent room to display the domestic life of the ancient people. There were a lot of things made by Indian scientists that were on display. Models of dams and hydroelectric projects, solar cookers, solar light systems, etc. that help us understand how far Indians have come after Independence are put on display in this museum. 

We kept moving on to one section from the other and learned a lot about our country’s rich past. We did have a great time at the museum and we are looking forward to our next visit.

Importance of Visiting a Museum

The students should know that visiting a museum now and then is good for many reasons and has many advantages. For instance, a child learns about different things visually and this helps him to remember things vividly. You can go to a museum and it is a source of entertainment for many students who like to learn about things differently. A museum educates a student about different things simply and helps you become smarter. 

Museums also help in inspiring young minds and help them dream of many possibilities. The Importance of Museums: conserving native Culture. Museums play a vital role in conserving native culture. With proper measures for physical object preservation, a culture will be recorded and remembered in spite of its future. It is also supposed to be shared by the people from different groups and thus in a way ends up being understood by those from completely different cultural backgrounds. Museums guarantee understanding and appreciation for varied groups and cultures. They're the establishments charged with preserving, protecting and displaying artefacts from our past and so conserving our wealthy heritage which could well be lost to personal collectors or to time itself. 

Quite evidently, if not for museums, we'd most actually lose the tangible links to our past. Museums are the storehouse of antique items. They are much underrated when in fact, they make great historical, anthropological, and archaeological monuments that impart knowledge about how the world used to be and how it developed over the centuries.

The visit to the museum was thrilling as well as an enriching experience for me. It was one of the richest experiences of my life to have seen and experienced all of that in the museum. It was deeply moving to see the vast storehouse of our country’s ancient glory. This visit to the National Museum has left a lingering impression on my mind.

FAQs on A Visit to a Museum - Long and Short Essay

1. What is a Museum?

A museum is a place that gives us knowledge about the civilizations of the past. Art, antique artifacts, and relics from ancient times are preserved and put on display for the public to see.

2. Why are Museums important?

Museums are a vast repository of information and knowledge from our past. It preserves and showcases all aspects of the ancient civilizations. You get to know how civilizations have evolved over the past years. Without museums, it would be close to impossible to keep a track of our history. The remains from the past would be scattered and not be found under one roof collectively. The public might not have access to all the places holding on to the remains.

3. Where can I get long and short essays on topics like 'A Visit to a Museum’?

The students can find essays on a variety of topics at Vedantu.com. Here, you will find long and short essays on topics most students are unable to find anywhere else. At Vedantu.com , every essay is free to read and the students can understand each word easily because of the simple and uncomplicated tone. These essays are easy to remember for exams and competitions. Also, the Vedantu app brings every topper the luxury of these essays in both long and short formats so you don't have to worry about adjusting any word. Writing a good essay has its own benefits like students getting better at critical thinking, their knowledge in a variety of different topics enhanced, as they grow older this helps in different career sectors or competitive exams due to better reading and writing skills, helps them express their ideas and overall improves their communication skills. This is why Vedantu is here with so many essays to choose from so that you can excel in the art of essay writing as every topper does. For this, regular practice is needed which helps the students to connect their ideas and write them without any hurdles arising. So for essays and study materials, choose Vedantu!

4. How many words should I write for a long or short essay about the topic ‘A visit to a museum’?

The students can write an average short essay about the topic ‘A visit to a museum’ which can vary from 150-200 words. An essay that is supposed to belong to the same topic must be at least 500-600 words. Writing an essay whether long or short helps a student to enhance their creativity and better their writing skills. These essays at Vedantu.com help a student in their exams, competitions or even competitive exams where good writing skills or good English proficiency is required. Reading and writing long-short essays for the students or even a 10 line essay for younger students helps them to enhance their creativity. The students learn about different things and gain more knowledge this way. As they have to search about the topic they are writing an essay on, it helps them to go through different ideas of different people which later on helps them in life too as in the form of skills. The students should make sure to choose a topic that has a lot to offer and write an essay about it if possible. This helps them to interlink one topic with another without any problem and thus, helps them to remember things more vividly. 

Essay on A Visit to a Museum

Students are often asked to write an essay on A Visit to a Museum in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on A Visit to a Museum

Introduction.

A visit to a museum is always an enriching and enlightening experience. It offers a glimpse into the past, helping us understand our history and culture.

The first section was dedicated to ancient civilizations. It displayed pottery, coins, and weapons. The next section had paintings and sculptures, showcasing our artistic heritage.

The museum visit was a journey through time. It was a great learning experience, making history come alive in front of my eyes.

250 Words Essay on A Visit to a Museum

A museum is a treasure trove of antiquities, a repository of cultural heritage, and a testament to human history. A visit to a museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the past, understand different cultures, and gain insights into the evolution of society.

The Entrancing Experience

Upon entering, one is immediately transported back in time. The hushed silence, the dimly lit corridors, and the meticulously arranged exhibits create an atmosphere of intrigue and reverence. It is a place where time stands still, and history comes alive.

Exploring the Exhibits

The exhibits are a fascinating blend of art, history, and science. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, from geological samples to historical documents, every object tells a story. Each exhibit is a piece of the puzzle that helps us understand our past and how it shapes our present.

The Learning Journey

A museum visit is not just a visual spectacle; it’s an immersive educational experience. The detailed descriptions and interactive displays provide a wealth of information that enhances our understanding of various subjects. It makes learning tangible, engaging, and enjoyable.

Reflection and Appreciation

The museum visit leaves one with a profound sense of awe and respect for our ancestors’ achievements. It fosters appreciation for the richness and diversity of our cultural heritage. It also underscores the importance of preserving these treasures for future generations.

In conclusion, a visit to a museum is a journey through time, a celebration of human ingenuity, and a learning experience like no other. It is an enriching activity that broadens our perspective, enriches our knowledge, and fuels our curiosity.

500 Words Essay on A Visit to a Museum

The enthralling experience.

The moment one steps into a museum, they are transported into a different realm. The air is heavy with the scent of antiquity and the aura of bygone eras. The artifacts, each a silent storyteller, narrate tales of glory, conquest, innovation, and evolution. The quiet corridors of the museum echo with the whispers of time, and the displays paint a vivid picture of the world’s historical timeline.

Artifacts and Exhibits

Museums host a diverse range of exhibits, from ancient relics to modern art. Paleolithic tools, Neolithic pottery, Egyptian mummies, Greek sculptures, Roman coins, and medieval armor, to name a few, take us back to different epochs. Paintings and sculptures showcase the evolution of artistic styles, while archaeological exhibits reveal the technological advancements of various civilizations. Contemporary art installations challenge conventional thinking and inspire new perspectives.

The Learning Experience

A visit to a museum is an educational experience par excellence. It offers a firsthand encounter with historical artifacts, fostering a deeper understanding of our cultural and historical roots. It enhances our knowledge about our ancestors’ lives, their beliefs, practices, and achievements. Moreover, it cultivates an appreciation for art, history, and archaeology, inspiring us to delve deeper into these subjects.

Reflections and Insights

In essence, a visit to a museum is a profound journey into the annals of history and human evolution. It is an enriching experience that broadens our horizons, deepens our understanding of the world, and connects us with our past. Museums, as custodians of heritage, play a vital role in educating society and fostering a culture of learning and appreciation for history and art. As we walk out of the museum, we carry with us not just memories of the visit but also deeper insights into our shared human experience.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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How to Write an Essay about a Museum

At school, college, or university, students are often asked to write essays on a variety of topics. And if you have received a task to write an essay about a museum, you need to understand how to prepare this work.

How to write an essay about museum experience? Before you get the answer to this question, you need to figure out what specific museum you will be writing about. It can be an institution that is in your city or outside of it (even in another country). To know a little about the museum, you do not have to visit it – it is enough to get acquainted with it on the Internet by reading a short description on the official website of the museum.

Nowadays, almost every museum has a specialization. When writing an essay, this fact can be useful, because you will be able to choose the direction of the museum that is most relevant to you. 

Museums can be:

• Scientific and educational. They are intended for the public (most of them).
• Academic, intended for professional communities. They are created in academies and scientific-research institutes and have a highly specialized character.
• Educational – intended for pupils and students. Such museums are often created on the territory of educational institutions for quick access to the exhibits needed for studies.

Museums also differ in their profiles, which are determined by the subject of the exhibits presented for study. Here’s a sample list of what the profiles are:

• historical; 
• contemporary or antique art; 
• memorial; 
• literary; 
• natural; 
• industrial.

In addition, each profile may have certain subtypes. For example, folk art museums and museums of fine arts belong to the category of art museums.

Once you have chosen a profile, you can begin to prepare. One of the main stages of making a plan for future work is to obtain information about the chosen museum. If there is such a possibility, it’s absolutely worth visiting the institution you have chosen. Then, you can write an essay about the museum experience you have received.

Essay visit to a museum

Such an essay will be based on personal experience, which all readers will appreciate. It should be prepared carefully, so before you go to the museum, prepare a notebook and a phone with a camera. The more information you write down the moment you are in the museum, the more detailed and well-reasoned your essay will be.

Here is a typical structure for an essay about museum visit:

• The essay begins with an introduction that highlights the general approach to the topic, in our case, it would be the museum you chose . The introduction should reflect the main idea of the text. The first sentences should be engaging and tell the content of the essay. For example: “During my visit to the museum, I came to the conclusion that it is useful for everyone to visit this institution and I can confirm it with many arguments.”
• The main part of the essay should be structured in such a way as to make the reader believe what is written in the introduction . For the information to be convincing, the essay writer must use strong arguments. In the main part, you must first present the main ideas and facts that will prove the explanation of each of them. In our case – it can be examples of exhibits and their brief description, a story about the tour, etc.
• The museum essay should end with a conclusion . You should summarize all the information written above, confirm the thesis statement, and give your final opinion. The conclusion should consist of several sentences and be clear to the reader.

Of course, the information and structure of the essay may vary depending on the type of museum you decide to visit. But the algorithm suggested above will help you structure your thoughts and express them correctly.

Essay on visit to a science museum

If you decide to write my essay about museums, choose a direction that you will be interested in. For example, it can be a science museum that you have already visited or are planning to visit.

In such an essay, it is very important to convey the benefits that science brings to humanity and how a museum helps in this. For example, you can mention many visitors, which shows the popularity of science among the population. It is also worth referring in an essay on science museums to the accessibility of knowledge concentrated in a small area, the immersion in a special atmosphere, and the feelings that you personally experienced when you were in a particular gallery. 

In such museums, you can find a lot of information about scientists of our time and historical personalities directly related to science. There are also so-called game galleries, where you can immerse yourself in scientific research playfully.

All of this can be described in the main body of the narrative. And the conclusion is an appeal to all people: engaging in science drives humanity to even greater success, and this is especially evident in places where the concentration of science is particularly high. That is why it is worth visiting this museum and experiencing its beauty for yourself.

Essay on visit to a railroad and transportation museum

If you love everything related to transportation, you can write an essay about a visit to a railroad museum. One of the places to write an essay about is the El Paso Rails Museum, which features a restored 1857 El Paso and Southwestern Railroad locomotive No. 1, a rare example of a pre-Civil War steam engine. In addition to this outstanding exhibit, the museum offers much interesting information about the products of this branch of engineering.

As an introduction, you can tell why you are interested in railroad and transportation museums and why you decided to visit one of them. The main body of the essay will, of course, describe the exhibits you saw on your visit and the impression they made on you.

The purpose of essays about visiting museums is to show the reader how exciting and unforgettable a simple trip to a museum can be. And the conclusion of the written will be a summary of all the facts that can make you visit that museum again.

As already mentioned, writing an essay based on your own experience is much easier and more interesting than being based only on theoretical knowledge. Therefore, do not neglect to visit the museum to prepare your own essay.

How to Write an Art Museum Essay Paper? 11 World-Famous Art Museums and Galleries

What is Art Museum Essay Paper

At some point throughout your educational life, you could be asked to go to at least one local art museum and compose an essay about a specific piece of artwork or your entire experience there. However, the possibility of having to craft an art museum essay paper is higher when you major in the history of the art museum, fine arts, museum architecture, and other related fields. And if you study such subjects, you will be given this task regularly during the semester to develop your writing abilities and practice the particular talent of writing about art.

There are various kinds of museums, each of which serves a distinct function. Some museums are created to highlight the heritage of a certain region, while others concentrate on crafts or science. Papers about museums can be instructive and thrilling, regardless of the museum's purpose. The various factors contributing to the museum experience should be considered while preparing an art museum essay paper. This can apply to the infrastructure, exhibitions, and environment in general. By considering each of these factors, you may write a thorough and entertaining essay about your visit. Your personal interpretation of the selected work may be the main emphasis of this paper, but it's always necessary to support your analysis with solid research. And if you ever feel the urge to ask someone ‘ write a paper for me ’, you can always turn to our pro writing assistance for any type of assignment!

How to Write Art Museum Essay Paper

People could explore exhibitions and museums by sorting content from many online sources. However, note that there are situations where this technique won't work. In the wider context, it is necessary to perceive a worthwhile thing by deliberately keeping your eyes on it in real life. The experience of visiting a museum is always educational. It broadens our horizons and enables us to comprehend and value the traditions of others. So, what are the specifics of writing a museum essay, you may ask? Well, firstly, our write my paper service highly recommends the following inquiries and ideas to be kept in mind when examining a piece of art:

• Does the work contain a lot of details?
• What attitude or sensation does the piece evoke in you?
• Is the style eloquent?
• How is the space set up?
• Do you think the artist has depth?
• What is the artwork's cultural background? Etc.

How Do You Start a Museum Essay or Paper?

Now let's discuss how to start writing a museum essay in more detail. The first step is to begin with an introductory paragraph where you introduce your thesis Statement. You will draft a thesis before you start writing. A thesis statement is an assertion you make regarding the subject of your essay, generally in 20 words or fewer. The topic is already established in our case - 'my trip to the museum.' Determine what you wish your readers to learn about your museum visit while developing a guiding notion or stance on the issue. You may say, 'museums serve an important role in securing native culture,' for instance.

When discussing the specific art, note any unique or noteworthy aspects in your museum essay. The length of the introduction might range from five to eight sentences. Don't forget to specify whether any of the artists were onsite to talk about their works during your museum experience.

Art Museum Essay Paper Outline

After introducing the topic, you should continue with further paragraphs as in any typical essay outline. There are no strict guidelines; the material should be kept in the correct sequence. Our write my paper for me service prepared a helpful outline guide when writing on a visit to a museum short essay.

• Introduction - Specify the location of the art exhibition, the included artists, and its title in the first paragraph. Use a startling statistic or information, or propose a query. For instance, 'Did you know that The Metropolitan Museum of Art was founded in 1870 after a French politician named Jon Jay urged creating a national art gallery within the United States in 1866?'. Then, list a few lines that briefly summarize the points you intend to make in your essay. Your thesis will be presented last.
• Body Paragraph - Your comments should include your thoughts on the work of art you are discussing. Write a paragraph describing the highlighted piece of art in detail. Analyze the design, fabrics, forms, patterns, and emotional impact on the audience. Write a comment on each item, highlighting the ones that jumped out to you and describing their strengths and weaknesses. Describe any historical periods or other artists that the pieces remind you of or may have affected you. Recount any conversations you had with any in-presence artists and provide their comments. Additionally, express your personal feelings and experiences. Describe the museum or studio where the exhibition was held to pinpoint the location. Explain how the environment affected the exhibited artists' work favorably or negatively. Discuss the display and setup that you thought worked well in addition to any changes that might have been made, such as using dimmer or warmer lighting.
• Conclusion - Create a summary paragraph. Analyze the exhibition's general atmosphere as it comes to you. Write if you enjoyed it overall, and then provide some context into how the display and the author's work will affect the art world. You can even decide to insert a quotation that, in your opinion, best captures the mood and themes of the show in this part. Cite any sources you consulted for material or quotes in style specified by your instructor or institution.

No matter how difficult the assignment is, we are passionate about producing original, outstanding papers for students.

How to Describe an Art Museum

People can struggle to come up with a response when prompted to explain art in a museum context. This is because the subject of art is so vast and personal. However, when writing about a visit to a museum short essay, you should concentrate on a few characteristics. They consist of the following: the tones included throughout the work, the artwork's overarching subject or purpose, how the art makes you feel, the artist's professional competence, the composition's uniqueness, etc. People frequently discover that when they can express their ideas and sentiments verbally, they are better able to enjoy the artwork. Others can grasp and admire art more by reading a description of it.

People typically define art in terms of how it looks, what it is about, and what it means. For instance, based only on its aesthetic elements, someone may describe an artwork as magnificent, unattractive, calm, active, etc. Another way to characterize a piece of art is by the subject matter it portrays, such as a panorama, a portrait, a static scene, etc. The relevance of a piece may also be discussed, with comments such as stimulating, thought-provoking, passionate, etc. Since art is such a delicate matter, there is no wrong way to express it.

To learn all the tips on writing, read our guide on how to write an essay with new features.

11 World Famous Art Museums and Galleries to Write About

The world's leading art museums capture a society's and a creator's perspective within a timeline and societal framework. This aids viewers in understanding a work of art and how it depicts the context in which it was created. In the following parts, we will uncover which museums are the greatest for producing a rich art museum essay paper with so many fascinating details that the reader won't be able to put down your writing.

San Antonio Museum of Art

In the southern United States, SAMA is famous for having the largest collection of ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian art. In your San Antonio museum of art essay paper, you can talk about the modern art galleries, where works by well-known artists from across the world are displayed alongside noteworthy pieces from Texas and regional artists. Objects from the Predynastic to the late Roman and Byzantine eras are included in the Egyptian collection. A significant and uncommon inventory of Greek and Roman statues, including portraits, funeral artwork, and mythical topics, is also kept there.

Mauritshuis (The Hague, Netherlands)

Mauritshuis is located in The Hague, the political and historical hub of the Netherlands. An impressive collection of Flemish and Dutch paintings from the genre's glory years from the seventeenth century is on display at this small, upscale establishment. Two stunning historic buildings serve as the gallery's home. The Mauritshuis is home to some well-known art pieces, including Girl with a Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer and Rembrandt's Anatomy Lesson by Dr. Nicolaes Tulp, which annually bring myriad visitors from across the world to the exhibition. From the moment you enter the Mauritshuis museum, you can sense the devotion to these outstanding works of art.

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The British Museum (London, United Kingdom)

Located in Bloomsbury, London, the British Museum is a state entity devoted to human heritage, artistry, and society. It is one of the world's largest and most comprehensive collections, with eight million items as of now. So, if you're assigned a museum essay, consider writing about the history of human civilization through the exhibition displayed in the British Museum. Mostly using Sir Hans Sloane's treasures as a foundation, the Museum was established in 1753. Montagu House, located on the same property, first welcomed guests in 1759. British colonization, which resulted in the formation of several ancillary institutions, contributed to the museum's growth over the following 250 years.

Dali's Museum, Figueras, Spain

The Dali Theatre Museum, completed in 1974 and on the ruins of the previous Municipal Theatre of Figueres, is regarded as Salvador Dali's final masterpiece. Everything there was planned and created by the artist to attract visitors. A trip to the Salvador Dali Museum Spain establishment offers an opportunity to appreciate and feel the genius's creations.

Vatican Museums, Vatican City, Rome, Italy

Traveling to Vatican City, the world's smallest city, is like visiting one huge display since the walkways are surrounded by museums overflowing with some of the most renowned masterpieces. Vatican City is undoubtedly the most worthwhile spot on the planet to see if you're an art enthusiast. Writing a museum essay will be a joyful experience once you have visited museum houses in the Vatican. A succession of Popes throughout history have amassed collections of Renaissance masterpieces. Over 6 million people tour this exhibition annually to see the galleries' splendor because it is a delight for the eyes.

Art Galleries of the Buffalo University

If your art museum essay paper is due soon, we recommend visiting the Art Galleries of Buffalo University immediately. Two art galleries at UB are devoted to the school's academic achievement and civic engagement purpose. Each gallery hosts an annual schedule of displays, giving students, professors, and the general public simple exposure to challenging artwork, guest artists, and engaging educational initiatives. The galleries carry out their educational role by putting on exhibits and activities that complement the curriculum and by offering possibilities for study and research.

Musee d’Orsay, Paris, France

The Gare d'Orsay train station, which was adjacent to the Seine, was the site of the museum's former headquarters. As it was built on the territory of the Palais d'Orsay, its strategic area was advantageous for commuters. The bulk of the museum's collection, which consists of statues, artworks, furnishings, and pictures and spans from 1848 to 1914, can be mentioned in your museum essay. The platform could have been demolished in 1970, but Minister of Cultural Affairs Jacques Duhamel rejected proposals to replace it with a contemporary hotel. In 1978, the facility was formally included in the listing of heritage structures.

The Louvre Museum (Paris, France)

Out of most art museums, the Louvre is the world's biggest and most well-known institution of fine arts. One of the greatest art holdings in existence may be found here, including Leonardo Da Vinci's Mona Lisa Louvre museum's treasure. With a staggering 10 million tourists yearly, it is also the most popular museum on earth. However, things weren't always like this. Only monarchs and aristocrats had access to it in the past. Nowadays, if you wish to visit this wonderful place, make sure to get a Louvre map before entering so you can organize your trip without becoming disoriented or overwhelmed. As for the Louvre Pyramid, the Chinese-American Louvre architect I. M. Pei. created the huge glass and metal tower.

Aside from the museum's historical and cultural heritage, we can also enjoy the collection of comic arts produced by Musée du Louvre Editions. Rohan at the Louvre is the first manga in their comic art productions. If you're searching for creative museum paper ideas, you can write about a young student named Rohan who aspires to work as a manga artist. The day he meets a young woman who exposes him to the world of art, his life is forever changed…

The Museum of Modern Art (New York, United States)

The Museum of Modern Art is home to a sizable gathering of masterpieces, mostly from America and Europe, from the 19th century to the present. With Alfred H. Barr as its first chairman, it was established in New York City in 1929. Along with paintings, statues, and visual art, the museum was one of the first in the US to collect architectural style, photos, and motion pictures. If you're keen on writing a museum essay on contemporary art, then the Museum of Modern Art is a way to go!

National Gallery (London, United Kingdom)

The UK's National Gallery houses masterpieces from the 13th to the early 20th century. It is possible to visit the National Gallery, a free community institution all year round in the center of London's Trafalgar Square. It can serve as a great source of inspiration if you'd like to write about a national gallery of art museum paper essay. No other collection provides such consistently excellent coverage of the development of Western European artwork. Nearly all of the National Gallery's over 2,300 art pieces are displayed year-round.

Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam

This wonderful museum, which chronicles Van Gogh's life and creative development, houses the largest permanent collection of his works anywhere in the world. Over 200 paintings from his professional life - his early, somber peasant portraits in the Netherlands to his latter, brilliant years in France - where he produced his most famous pieces with their signature flamboyant color - are on display. We couldn't think of any other art museum paper essay you can write with as rich and abundant details as it is to describe Van Gogh Museum, where you can personally experience his different life stages.

And if you still wish someone could take over your academic tasks and fulfill your ‘ write my college paper ’ request, we will be thrilled to be the ones who rescue you from this agony!

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• Essay On A Visit To A Museum

Essay on a Visit to a Museum

500+ words essay on ‘a visit to a museum’.

Museums are custodians of the past. These non-profit institutions collect, conserve, research, communicate and exhibit relics of the past. These tangible and intangible objects in the museums offer a fascinating insight into the heritage of humanity, our environment and the world. These institutions, which are in the service of society, are a very important source of knowledge and education.

Last year, my parents and I went on a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. It was a very thrilling experience for me to visit such an extraordinary place. I learnt a lot about the history of our country and the environment we live in. The museum had a lot of exhibits on different cultures, animals, birds and even eminent personalities.

My Experience with a Visit to a Museum

The museum, which is located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., was first opened in 1910. The museum, which is spread over 1.5 million square feet, houses over 145 million specimens. The exhibits include specimens of plants, animals, fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites, human remains, and artefacts of human culture from across the world. The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is the largest natural history collection in the world.

There are several different exhibitions inside the museum. They include the:

• Hall of Geology, Gems, and Minerals: The Hall of Geology, Gems, and Minerals comes under the National Gem and Mineral Collection. The Hall has over 15,000 gems, 350,000 minerals, 45,000 known meteorite samples and 300,000 rock and ore specimen samples. The Hall is also home to the famous Hope Diamond and the Star of Asia Sapphire.
• Hall of Human Origins: This Hall is dedicated to the understanding and discovery of the origins of humans. The exhibit includes over 76 human skulls, an interactive family tree that shows over 6 million years of evolution and more.
• Hall of Paleobiology/Dinosaurs: This exhibit in the Hall of Dinosaurs includes fossilized skeletons and cast models of several species of dinosaurs. I particularly enjoyed watching the T-Rex exhibit and the Triceratops exhibit in virtual motion.
• Hall of Mammals: The Smithsonian’s Hall of Mammals exhibits one of the largest mammal collections in the world. The specimens are displayed as works of modern art in their environment. I enjoyed learning how mammals have evolved and adapted over the years.
• Insect Zoo: The insect zoo is a fascinating place to visit. The hall has been designed to show insects in their natural habitat. It helps you learn about how each insect has adapted themselves to their environment.
• Ocean Hall: The Ocean Hall was one of my favourite exhibits in the museum. The museum has over over 80 million specimens in its collection. It also has a 1,500-US-gallon (5,700 l) aquarium. My favourite exhibit in this hall was the female giant squid displayed in the centre of the hall.
• African Voices: This exhibit is dedicated to the people, the culture, the diversity and the natural environment of Africa.
• Butterflies + Plants: Partners In Evolution: The Butterflies and Plants hall was another wonderful exhibit in the museum. I especially enjoyed spending time in the live butterfly pavilion.
• Hall of Bones: The Hall of Bones is a display of a variety of vertebrate skeletons.

The museum also has an activity room for families and students on the first floor and a bird exhibit on the lower level.

Conclusion of Essay on a Visit to a Museum

I loved visiting the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. It was a treasure trove of information and a wonderful experience for me and my family. I enjoyed discovering and learning more about our world and the environment. I look forward to going to more museums and learning more new things. I feel that a visit to a museum is an enjoyable and enriching experience for everyone.

We hope you found this essay on a visit to a museum useful. Check BYJU’S for more CBSE Essays on a variety of topics.

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• Art Studies

How to Write an Art Exhibition Review

Last Updated: December 29, 2023 Approved

How to Draft Your Review

How to revise your review, best practices for viewing an art exhibit, expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Kelly Medford and by wikiHow staff writer, Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA . Kelly Medford is an American painter based in Rome, Italy. She studied classical painting, drawing and printmaking both in the U.S. and in Italy. She works primarily en plein air on the streets of Rome, and also travels for private international collectors on commission. She founded Sketching Rome Tours in 2012 where she teaches sketchbook journaling to visitors of Rome. Kelly is a graduate of the Florence Academy of Art. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 95% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 303,139 times.

Art exhibition reviews provide a description and critical analysis of an art exhibit. This helps visitors know what to expect from the exhibit and gives feedback to the artist. To write an effective art exhibition review, visit the exhibit, take detailed notes, and talk to the artist, a docent, or a curator, if possible. Then, discuss your observations and opinions in your review and revise your work before finalizing it.

Things You Should Know

• Provide the who, what, where, when, and why of the exhibit in your introduction to paint a clear picture for the reader.
• Give a detailed description of the exhibit, including how each piece is displayed, so readers can know what to expect.
• Take a critical look at the exhibit and offer your opinions on the exhibit. Mention if it was successful in portraying its core themes and ideas.

• Write, “Agatha Tompkin’s The Friends You Have opened at the Contemporary Art Center on Friday, August 23rd and runs through November 1st. Her watercolors and mixed media works explore modern relationships and how communities differ.”

• You might say, “Tompkin’s watercolors are grouped on two adjacent walls in simple 11 by 14 in (28 by 36 cm) black frames. Hanging on the opposite walls, her mixed-media work consists of 5 by 7 ft (1.5 by 2.1 m) canvases that are arranged in a line. Visitors can walk alongside the artwork for a visual experience.”

Tip: While many artworks are meant to be viewed, there are other ways to interact with art. Sometimes art is meant to be listened to, and you may be immersed in an installation. Think about how you’re interacting with the artwork in this exhibit.

• Explain the artist’s stated thesis and how well they expressed it in their exhibit.
• Identify parts of the exhibit that worked well. If there were works that didn’t support the main idea, explain how the artist could have better incorporated them.
• Consider how this exhibit relates to art history as a whole. Where would it fit in? How does this art compare to existing works? How does it express common themes?

• For instance, a curator may not face any unique challenges while hanging framed oil paintings on a wall. However, they might struggle with installing a sculpture that hangs from the ceiling or an installation that has moving parts.
• You might write, “While the framed watercolors were easy to hang on the exhibit walls, the curators struggled to install the single mixed-media sculpture that Tompkins created from found objects. The sculpture is designed to look like it’s floating between the ceiling and the floor, so it must be hung using thin wires.”

• If this is for class, your instructor likely told you which style guide to use. Format your paper and any citations that you use according to the rules for that style guide.

• Don’t ask someone who’s unfamiliar with art exhibition reviews to critique your paper because they may unintentionally give you bad advice.

• Reading your review aloud will help you spot areas that don’t flow well. Re-write these sentences to make them better.

• Try to get someone else to proofread it for you because it’s hard to spot your own errors.

• If you have any questions, ask your instructor so that you don’t accidentally make an error on your assignment.

• Make several passes through the exhibit so you can make new observations and connections between the works.
• Look at the art from different angles and distances. While it’s important to examine each piece closely, you also want to take in the entire exhibit as a whole to see how the artist evoked their theme.

• Document how the artist created each image, such as how they used lines, shapes, colors, shading, textures, patterns, and light. You’ll use this information to develop your discussion on form.

Ask yourself questions like:

Why are the works of art ordered or arranged this way?

Does a particular work stand out from the rest?

Is there a theme or a subtext to the exhibition?

Does the theme or thesis become obvious as I walk through the space?

How is this exhibition different from others I've seen?

• Ask yourself questions like the following: Based on what I see, what do I think the artist is trying to say? What does the exhibit make me think about? How do I feel?

• Ask a docent questions like, “What was the artist hoping to achieve in this exhibit?” “What inspired the artist to create these works?” and “What are the core pieces of this exhibit?”
• Ask a curator questions like, “Why did you arrange the artwork like this?” “What challenges did you face while installing the exhibit?” and “What instructions did the artist give for hanging their work?”

• For instance, do you notice visitors avoiding a certain piece? Are they drawn to some pieces more than others? Which pieces are generating conversation? What types of comments do you overhear?
• If you’re planning to publish your review, ask fellow visitors to give you quotes that you can use for your review. Get their name so you can credit them.

• Wait until after you view the exhibit so that your initial impressions aren’t influenced by the artist.

Tip: Read the artist statement for more insight into what inspired the exhibit.

• Your review should focus on your own ideas, not on what other people said.

• Read art exhibition reviews written by professional critics to help you understand the typical format. [15] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Always have materials ready for taking notes or recording conversations. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Don't overuse superlatives. If you fall into the trap of calling every artwork you see "breathtaking," "magnificent" or "flawless," you'll soon come off as an uninformed critic. Likewise, calling everything you dislike "appalling," "disgusting," or "terrible" will undermine your ideas. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.ocadu.ca/Assets/content/teaching-learning/WLC/Online+Resources/Writing+Art+Reviews.pdf
• ↑ https://ualr.edu/art/art-history-resources/papers-and-projects/guidelines-for-analysis-of-art/
• ↑ http://arthistoryteachingresources.org/2017/09/museums-writing-exhibition-reviews/
• ↑ https://www.uwgb.edu/malloyk/art_criticism_and_formal_analysi.htm
• ↑ http://www.csus.edu/indiv/o/obriene/art112/Readings/Writing_a_Review_of_an_Exhibition.pdf

About This Article

To write an art exhibition review, start with an introductory paragraph that introduces a thesis about the exhibit. Then, break the body of your review up into individual sections that each focus on specific artwork in the exhibition. In each section, make sure you include descriptions of the art, your analysis and interpretation of the artwork, a consideration of the space it was displayed in, and finally your evaluation. To conclude your review, write a conclusion that ties together your main points and summarizes your review. To learn how to analyze and critique an art exhibit, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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• Museum Planning Contact Us
• 10 Steps to Starting a Museum

Mark Walhimer February 10, 2011 Museum Planning , Starting A Museum 46 Comments

Starting a museum or “How to start a museum in 10 steps”.   Since 1992, I have been part of opening and expanding more than thirty-five museums.   Most of my work has been with science centers, children’s museums and natural history museums.   Below is my list of the ten steps to starting a new museum or “How to start a museum”:

UPDATE : I wrote this post in 2011 and it is all still true and helpful today. However, if you are wanting a more in-depth treatment of how to start a museum, I just released a new book,  Museums 101 , which I designed to be an A-to-Z resource for those looking to start a museum. If you are truly looking to start a museum, my book was written for you. You can buy it on Amazon.com .

• One Page Description .  Write a one page description of the museum.  You can use my museum questionnaire as a starting point for your new museum description. What type of museum are you creating? science center?, Art museum? local history?  Then, purchase two books, “Please Understand Me” and “Built to Last” .  I am consistently surprised how the personality of the founder of a museum comes through in the opened museum.  It makes sense, the founder, builds a Board of Directors, the Board of Directors hires an Executive Director and the Executive Director hires staff.  We all tend to gravitate to people similar to us, so the personality of the founder is often similar to the staff of the museum 10 years latter.  Roy Shafer led a workshop I attended, where we were each given a personality test, before handing out the results of the test, he asked us to look to our left and to our right and notice the people sitting next to us.  We then opened the personality test and the entire room had organized ourselves according to our personality type.  Be very honest, “is your personality the personality you want reflected in the opened museum?”  If not, find Board Members to your weakness.
• Community Meeting .  The second step of starting a museum, organize a community meeting, invite politicians, “want to be politicians”, parents, teachers, school superintendents and real estate developers and ask “what type of museum do you want?”.  DO NOT show drawings of the proposed museum, DO NOT describe the museum you are planning.  Listen.  Collect the names and email addresses of the participants and ask if they would be willing to attend future meetings.   Do not fall into the trap of “if I build it they will come”, find out what the community wants.
• 20 Museums.  As part of starting a museum, visit twenty museums of the type you are interested in opening.  Keep notes and take lots of pictures.  What is their yearly attendance?  What is their ticket price?  Find out their operating costs, the National Center for Charitable Statistics is a wonderful resource. Notice the smallest details, what does the floor staff wear? Ask to do a “back of house tour”, Do they have a museum store?  What type of ticketing system do they use?  Write a thank you note to any staff you meet during your visit.  Join a museum organization and get involved.  Go back to your community and show them the findings of your museum visits.
• Real Estate Developers are your friends .  Make an effort to meet the real estate developers in your community.  Every project of starting a museum, I have ever worked on has in some way been motivated by real estate.  Make friends with real estate developers, tell them of your museum idea.  You will be surprised how your plans will resonate with real estate developers.  You are supplying a community resource.  Do NOT make any agreements with real etstate developers until after you have raised more than half of your capital.
• Do the numbers .  Starting a museum is very expensive, as a rule of thumb, the exhibition space is half of the overall space, a 4500 exhibition space becomes a 9000 square ft building at $200 per square foot of new construction is $1.8 million dollars, plus approximately, $150 to fit out the gallery spaces, $675,000, total $2,475,000 in start up costs plus operating costs.  If you use an average of $40 per square ft for operating costs your yearly operating costs would be $360,000 (salaries, utilities, maintenance), not including an endowment.  Create a business plan, can you earn at least 50% of your yearly expenses?  Be conservative with your annual attendance figures.  Too many museums have gotten into trouble using optimistic attendance figures.  Attendance in the second and third year of a new museum can fall off 20%-30% (or more).  Plan to the third year of operation, too many museums only plan to the opening of the museum.  Plan to your third year, not to opening.
• Own the words .  Research all of the words that describe your planned museum, the more specific you can be, the better.  Use Google Analytics and purchase domains related to the words that describe the museum.  Create a name for the organization, be very specific; San Francisco Maritime Museum, Techniquest, San Mateo County History Museum.
• Non-Profit .  Up to this point there is no need to form an non-profit, it is an advantage to wait.  Get people involved, build a community around the museum need, then form the non profit.  The best museums are those that grow out of a community need.  Organize your Board of Directors.  Your Board should include, politicians, business people, investment experts, real estate developers, experts in the field of the museum, teachers, school superintendents and potential donors.  A larger Board of Directors (20-25 people) is fine while you are raising funds.  Form a 501(c)(3) .
• Pre-View Facility.   As part of starting a museum , c reate a preview facility, a smaller version of your yet to be opened museum.  The preview facility may be very small and only temporary.  The preview facility is great for talking with potential donors, now you can walk donors through a small version of the final museum.  Speak to architects and exhibition designers.  Tell them of your plans, select an architect and an exhibition designer, tell them “we have limited resources at this point, but if you help us with the preview facility (pay them a reduced fee) you will have the contract for the museum”.
• Raise Money.  Use the Board of Directors.  A favorite story of mine is an Executive Director needed $500,000 for a new exhibition, he called a meeting and said to the Board of Directors “I need $500,000, each of you either needs to contribute $25,000 or find someone who will contribute $25,000.”  at the end of the meeting a Board member wrote a check for the full $500,000.  For more information read my article “ Museum Fundraising”
• Share the Vision .  The best fund raising tools I know of starting a museum:; a preview facility, an icon ( The Discovery Science Center Cube , The world’s largest  Brachiosaurus at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis), and a museum preview booklet (including architectural illustrations and exhibition illustrations).  As you start the design process walk potential donors through the preview facility (with museum preview booklet in hand) and discuss with them potential icons of the facility, your exhibition plans and involve the donors with the building architecture and exhibition design.  Try not to make any promises for naming opportunities until you are confident that you will reach your capital campaign goals.

Other popular museum planning articles:

• Museum Exhibition Design
• Glossary of Museum Terms *
• How to Create A Virtual Museum Tour That Generates Real Online Engagement
• Standards for Museum Exhibitions and Indicators of Excellence
• Starting a Museum
• Virtual Museums: The Future of Museum Visits?
• Free Museum Collection Software
• How Much Do Museum Exhibitions Cost?
• Pop Up Museum

Comments 46

Would love to hear comments !

Thanks for you professional and real insight on Museum Planning! I want to open a museum and your list justifies what I am doing.

Hi Michelle, Thank you for the kind words!nn-Mark

Your 10 step planning has been very helpful. I am working with an historical society that wants to open a museum but, that is all they know, is that they want to open. Your 10 steps has helped me to organize them and create a timeline! Thank you.

Mark, Thankyou so much for posting this information. u00a0 In Jan 2010, an authentic Chinese Junk found it’s way into my life, here in Monterey Bay, CA.u00a0 Since then a descendant from 1851 Chinese visited me in full Chinese Robes on the boat.u00a0 I could see she was visibly moved by being on the junk and imagining what it was like for her family to travel from China to Pacific Grove in a boat like mine.u00a0 Then, I heard a whisper in my ear: Chinese Junk Museum.u00a0 The Chinese built the commercial fishing biz here in the beginning and most of the culture and history was lost when the village was burned to the ground by arsonists.u00a0 My goal is to have 3 junks total of differing sizes, and share exhibits with the Hong Kong Maritime Museum.u00a0 With your info, I have a needed blueprint on how to proceed and of course need funds and volunteers to get started.u00a0 I hope to get to a place where I will need your services. [email protected]

Hi Mark, I’m in the early EARLY stages of planning an interactive museum and I’m very glad to have found these guidelines. Like other commenters, I look forward to communicating and hopefully working with you in the future.

Your misuse of the word ‘an’ is very frustrating.

Hi Mark, Thank you for the great information. I am a graduate student of Museum and heritage studies, my colleagues and I are hoping to start up a museum in April. The 10 steps will be helpful when planning to start up a museum. I am hoping to work with you in case of any inquiries. [email protected]

If we are The African American Music Hall Of Fame do we still want to be called a museum even if we are showcasing history of African American Music

Thanks for this article: extremely helpful.  I am not a museum expert, but want to initiate development of a regional museum in Lake Havasu City, AZ. Your article saved me considerable effort that would have gone into ‘trial& error’, and dead ends. Most appreciated!

hi mark.am an engineering student. i,m currently doing an architectural plan for an art museum, but i got into trouble of deciding and organizing its divisions, parts etc. can you help me? thank you in advance

Mark, thanks for this 10-step planning guide. It was both informative and a wake-up call. In your article you reference a questionnaire. I cannot locate it. Can you please post-it somewhere on your page?

Brilliant summary of the process. Thank you, Mark for sharing this information!

This was amazing. I am looking at starting a children’s museum in my small town and I didn’t know where to start…but now I do. Thank you so much. I will definitely be referring back to you.

thanks for the helpful information.

where can i get the museum questionnaire you refer to in point num.1? thanks

Your list is quite helpful for direction the organization should consider taking in reference of opening a museum. I’ll meet with them on July 20th and let you know how it goes… thanks a lot, Brunilda Milan

Thanks for this very insightful information!! Just want to know whether we could get access to the two books you are talking about and the museum questionnaire.

I know of gentlemen who built a children’s museum in memory of his late wife who adores children. As a jeweler, he had no idea what kind of responsible or dedication it entailed. Now he is looking to sell it to someone who is more capable of running a children’s museum. I’ve been there with my two boys and it was one of their best experiences at a museum. This museum is located in New Jersey. If you are interested, please contact me at [email protected] .

How do I go about getting funds for a 5-Part building museum, that incorporates alternative energy for working facilities with out the risk of being biased to the public view with the back up of huge investors believed for being “bad” for the environment?

Also, is it possible to create a Billion dollar museum for the size I dream it to be, with the technology that money can buy and still become successful?

Dr M N Venkatesha

It is very educative to an entrant who wants to build a Museum. Now I am in the process of establishing a museum at Palimaru Mata, Udupi, Karnataka, India

I noticed the link to the questionnaire is broken. Is it available anywhere else?

A very interesting read and I think I understand how you go from an idea to a mom & pop size museum but what if your idea only really works as a large scale museum? Is it possible without huge resources? or even moderate resources? I was considering starting a wiki page explaining the concept and trying to encourage others to enter virtual exhibits. If this did take off then my hope was I could use this to ask for government or industry funding.

PS Mark, you may need to update your links for “Please understand me” and “Built to last” as they lead to blank pages (at least for me here in the UK).

Would love to see the questionnaire. Your link is 404 file not found.

Hello, Mark , I got your book last december, its great and has helped me a great deal. Now I just found this site, what a blessing. Thanks, us new ones need all the help we can get. Thank you!

The Veteran Woman Museum.org (The first women’s military museum from WW1-Afghanistan)

Your ten steps is very informative, I will utilize them when we get our new Apache Cultural Museum in the planning stages here on the San Carlos Apache Reservation. Any advise on the first steps would be helpful. Also your questionnaire isn’t accessible.

I am wanting to start a military museum. Mostly wwll to present. Any comments??

Hi Eric, I would need more information in order to offer comments. – Mark

Hi Mark. Thank you for the very helpful 10 steps. I understand your advice to not file non-profit status right away. My question: does this rule still apply to for-profit museums? Also, have you been involved in the formation of for-profit museums? How different/similar is the process?

Your article is very helpful in laying out the ground work necessary to starting a museum. I have hopes of opening a Children’s Museum in Leesburg, VA or surrounding areas. We had a Children’s Museum in DC at one point, it closed and reopened in National Harbor, MD (right outside of DC). The museum was only open for 3 years before closing again. What do you think of opening a Children’s Museum in Leesburg?

Hi Erika, Thank you for the message.

Always a wonderful idea to create creative spaces for kids ! Would need to know more about the project to say if it is financially feasible. Send me an email if I can be of further assistance. All the best, -Mark

Hi Pam, Yes, have been involved in the formation of “for-profit” museums. For-profit museum is a bit of a misnomer, ICOM museum definition; “A museum is a non-profit, permanent institution in the service of society and its development, open to the public, which acquires, conserves, researches, communicates and exhibits the tangible and intangible heritage of humanity and its environment for the purposes of education, study and enjoyment.”

With that said, yes for-profit museums exist. The process of development is similar but the motivations are different, most for-profit museums are part of a larger corporation to memorialize the history of a company. I can only think of a couple of “stand alone” for-profit museums that have been successful.

Best, – Mark

Dear Terrill, Thank you for the kind words !

Link to the questionnaire All the best, -Mark

Dear Mr. Mark, I really thank you for sharing some of your knowledge. And I would love to get more advices and more suggestions according to my new career because I’m about runing an archaeological museum. Looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Best , -Ahmad

Hey Mark, I am glad I stumbled upon your website. I and a partner of what to start the first Children’s museum in Africa. I would probably need a lot of help but I will read through the available information first. Thanks for this wonderful resource

Mark hi – great resource and thanks for posting. When starting an art museum, is it a strict rule to always construct or purchase the space? Or when starting out can long term renting be an option?

Hi Jeni, Thank you for the kind words! Do you have an art collection? As long as a rental space is secure and has museum conditions renting is fine. Many museums exist in rented spaces. Often museums are working with a city and the city offers the museum a low-cost rental.

It is very useful. Thank you very much.

Thank you Gagarine for the kind words, – Mark

Great to come across this development. We have an obligation to establish one Museum in our Kingdom during our generation. We shall be most helped with this information.

Dear Chrispine, Glad that you found the information helpful !

All the best, – Mark

Dearest Mark, hello from South Africa. I have decided to open a MUSEUM of MEASUREMENT in Johannesburg, SA. I realise our social and operating conditions are very different but would appreciate calling on your knowlege in general for assistance. This preliminary mail is really to enquire whether you see a possibility of doing so from USA.

Best regards Colin Lee [email protected]

In the article you used the figure $200 sq/ft as the estimate for building cost. Is this just an example, or would you say this is a reasonable average for a development of this type? If it helps, I’m located in New Orleans, LA. I know costs vary throughout the country, though, so if you can provide even a national average it would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for any help you’re able to provide!

Hi Mike, The $200 per square foot for building costs is a good general number for a quick estimate. Of course building construction costs can be lower (existing building in need of minor renovation) to new or renovated building to a high standard of interior design.

– Mark

Hello Mark, Great resource. I sent you an email and I hope to hear from you.

Hi Mark Imagine my delight in finding a comprehensive answer to a question I’ve been mulling over for some time now… Thank you so much for sharing your practical planning wisdom in this genre. Jessica M.

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How do you start a museum? Advice from four museum leaders who’ve done it

The process of translating an idea and opening your doors as a museum can be a challenging and foreboding process. To help give insight on the topic, MuseumNext consulted with the heads and founders of four recently opened museums for recommendations on steps and frameworks to consider. These four institutions vary in subject matter and format as well as their locations; they cover three different continents. Several themes and frameworks emerged in conversations with all four people. Note: this is not an exhaustive guide but a framework to start thinking about opening a museum.

Play Africa is the first children’s museum in South Africa

Starting a Museum – Part 1 : What’s Your Idea?

The first step is having an idea for a museum. This idea can be a concept, such as American writers, climate change, a children’s museum or something else completely. Gretchen Wilson-Prangley, Founder and CEO of Play Africa , decided to open the first children’s museum in South Africa after going to the Imagine Children’s Museum outside of Seattle with her children. In her MuseumNext talk , she explained that her vision was “a safe, child-friendly space to play, learn and dream” in Johannesburg. Carey Cranston, the president of The American Writers Museum in Chicago, USA, explained that the museum was driven by people who felt strongly about the need for such an institution to exist since nothing existed like it in the US. Bridget McKenzie founded the Climate Museum UK in 2018 because “climate change causes rapid changes to the planet, to our politics, to our sense of being human, sense of our continuity of heritage, and all kinds of people need support to deal with those changes.”

More traditionally, museums can be founded around a collection. That collection can be an archive of a famous writer’s writings or a collection of objects like a corkscrew or shoes. Some museums are a combination of both an assortment of objects and ideas. Emma Balch was inspired by the bookish town of Hay-on-Wye to create The Story of Books , a working museum ‘where stories are told and books are made’ with a collection of objects, books and equipment specifically for this purpose.

Starting a Museum – Part 2 : Information Gathering

After you’ve had spark of an idea for a museum, the first step is learning as much about the topic area as much as possible. This information gathering process serves several functions. First, it helps you to flesh out and refine the idea behind the museum. Reaching out to experts and other institutions can help you better understand what you want to achieve. Wilson-Prangley said she spent the first year talking with people in Johannesburg and globally to make sure she was creating was “meaningful and useful” to the communities she wanted to serve. She met with people working as play therapists, artists, community leaders, child rights advocates and many others, to help refine the mission of Play Africa. She gives a lot of credit to children’s museums across the world —including museums in Illinois, Mississippi and El Salvador —in providing her with advice and time for her museum. The American Writers Museum approached other people who supported the museum, even winning a National Endowment for the Humanities planning grant and helped the founders consult with writers, editors, academics, and others throughout the country. Cranston advised, “Involve as many people as you can so that you have as a broad a view you want to create as possible.”

Second, this learning phase also helps you learn about the particulars of running a museum. People can give advice on the actual structure of the museum (which is often related to the topic) or help you understand the operational needs of running an institution. Balch read everything she could find on her chosen topic of books. She listened to relevant talks online, visited museums and relevant cultural centres, and attended conferences. She reached out to people in her network, including Jim Richardson, Founder of MuseumNext, to figure the best direction for her museum.

Emma Balch started the Story of Books in Hay-on-Wye

Starting a Museum – Part 3 : Building Your Network

The information gathering stage also builds a network of supporters. That support can be future philanthropic support or it can be assistance of time or expertise, such as lawyer who can help with the legal aspects of forming the organization. These information gathering sessions can serve multiple functions at once. Talks with people about the mission can also be discussions about financial support as well. Moreover, these conversations can also provide moral and emotional support. Balch said that encouragement received from experienced museum professionals “gave [her] the confidence to pursue” The Story of Books without being part of an established institution.

Starting a Museum – Part 4 : Structure

After this networking stage, you should start to think about the structure of the museum. There are three critical areas to think about. The first is the legal structure of your organization that will be heavily dependent on the country’s laws that you are working in. Will your museum be a charity or nonprofit that relies on philanthropy? Or you may want to be a social enterprise? The Story of Books has chosen to be a social enterprise “using the market to achieve our social purposes, rather than to generate profit for profit’s sake.” The structure will also impact how you will fund your organization so it is important to think critically about those issues.

Once you’ve decided on the structure of your organization, you’ll have to file relevant paperwork with your local government, open bank accounts for handling funds, and other operational necessities. Wilson-Prangley noted that it took more time than she had anticipated and suggested working on it earlier in the process.

Second, there’s the question of building a formal board for your museum. Will your museum have a governing board or support boards filled with people who will operationally support the museum, ensure the smooth running of the institution, and facilitate the philanthropic goals? Wilson-Prangley advises including people “who would add value and shape the values we were trying to build.” Cranston notes how boards are instrumental because board members “were volunteering their time and money, really investing in the idea” before there was even a staff. He notes, “It was essential that it was a broad stroke of people with great expertise.” But a museum can have other board structures rather than something as formal. The Story of Books brings together people from five categories —museum/archives, publishing, education, artist/maker, not-for-profit— for every project, regardless of how large it is. Balch explained that she wanted to make the museum more informal and democratic, bringing in lots of voices and perspectives for every project.

Third, you need to decide how the museum will exist in the world. Will your museum have a physical location? Does your museum need a permanent location to open its doors? Or will you exist within the frameworks of other institutions? Or do you exist completely online? Or a hybrid of everything? Obviously, the actual format of your museum will have an impact on your funding needs; greater funds are likely needed for a permanent location compared to an online museum. A physical location can be great if you plan on programming and classes. This step along with the structure and funding of the museum will also impact the need for staff. If you have an online museum, you’ll need fewer staff members; if you have a big institution with lots of programming and departments, your needs will be much higher.

Starting a Museum – Part 5 : Location? Location?

Most people think that a physical space is a necessity but it depends on what you want to do. Wilson-Prangley explains how they had planned for one space but the location fell through and along with it, some critical funding. They decided that they didn’t need a physical location to open Play Africa; instead, the city would become the museum. Play Africa found low cost spaces in communities and began prototyping in parks, schools, and many other locations. Wilson- Prangley explained: “we saw that kids didn’t need $26M to have good time, we just needed to give them an experience that they couldn’t get elsewhere.” They eventually got space in a former prison in Constitution Hill, Johannesburg. However, she noted that “once we let go of that idea of bricks and mortar, that really allowed us to discover who we could be.”

Climate Museum UK, on the other hand, is manifesting in different ways: a pop-up museum that can be taken to other institutions and spaces, a digital museum of climate art, ephemera and eco-design, as well as a Museums+Climate Tour for an institution or even for a town or city.

Location is an important consideration if you chose to have a physical establishment because it will impact traffic and visibility. Cranston explained that founders chose Chicago for the museum after reviewing locations across the US and wanted the museum to be on Michigan Avenue in the heart of Chicago. The Story of Books had a similar situation as Play Africa: Balch had a partnership with a business outside of town that would provide the location but it ended up not working out. Instead, The Story of Books found a home in Hay-on-Wye itself . Balch felt that the experience has made the museum stronger, benefitting from access to the wide range of people on the high street.

Starting a Museum – Part 6 : Prototyping

The next step is prototyping the museum with audiences. As mentioned before, Play Africa benefited from prototyping the classes and workshops all around Johannesburg to help the museum create relevant and meaningful content for its intended audiences. Before it opened its physical space, the American Writers Museum had a physical exhibit about six writers that traveled throughout Chicago to libraries and other public locations. Crayton explains that you should be able to react and “be willing to make changes based on your audiences’ reactions to the space” or programming. That way you can constantly evolve as an institution and create the best exhibits and programming for your audiences.

Play Africa in Johannesburg

Starting a Museum – Part 7 : Launch

Getting the word out is another important consideration. How will you get audiences to come to your institution? By reaching out to communities like Play Africa did, you can really develop your audiences from there. Some institutions use marketing campaigns to spread the word while others may have limited budgets. But you’ll want to make sure your target audiences know you are there so they can come. Pricing, open hours, public transit options, etc. will have a big impact on this as well.

Then after all that hard work, you’ll open your doors, whatever that means for your institution. However, as your museum grows, you’ll constantly refine and expand your mission. Some processes will work while others won’t. The mission and the people who are supporting the institution—the staff, the boards, the network— will help in achieving your mission. The institution will likely change as you learn what works and doesn’t work. Several directors explained that flexibility is essential for the museum creating-process. Balch and Wilson-Prangley had to shift their vision when their locations fell through but both institutions grew stronger from the experiences.

The directors also acknowledged that the process can be rough. It’s harder to create something from scratch without the aid of a large institution or large donors who can provide the structure, manpower, and funding to make the dream a reality. When asked what she wished she had known when she started, Balch said, “I wish that I’d known that it’d be alright. There are moments where it’s not working out and you are not part of a big team. You’ve got to dig really deep and go: ‘I really do believe that this is worth continuing with.’”

Thank you to all four directors/presidents for talking with MuseumNext about starting a museum. Go out there and make your museum a reality.

MuseumNext  offer online learning for museum professionals striving for engaging, relevant and flexible professional growth content.  Learn more about our virtual museum conferences here.

About the author – Elisa Shoeberger

Elisa Shoenberger is an academic out of academia. She is a writer, historian, oral historian, musician, performer, and general troublemaker. She writes about the arts and travel for a number of publications in both the United States and Europe.

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Visiting a Museum, Essay Example

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I have in the past attended several museums in different parts of the world but my visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York was a totally new experience. It was on 17 June 2011 when I visited Metropolitan Museum and this left me with a feeling that it is such a wonderful and adventurous  museum that one cannot afford to miss. On my arrival to this museum, it appeared to as a mini adventure as in approached the museum entrance. The museum is located on the Central park and therefore making it a very convenient location.

Whatever you can admire to see in any museum is available at Metropolitan Museum in New York. My experience in this museum was amazing. The attention of my sight was specifically caught by the colorful paintings that I located in European Masters Gallery. Most of these painting have been posted in the website of Metropolitan Museum and I have constantly been watching and admiring them at the website. Although it appeared to me like I had seen the paintings before, my physical encounter to the paintings was so thrilling that I enjoyed every part of my visit to the museum. The paintings were really humorous as and different from what was depicted in the website (Winifred & Henry, 2007).

The museum gave me an impression of a mammoth variety of properly displayed artifacts to facilitate a comfortable walk through the civilized history while assessing the creation of man over a number of centuries.  The museum was in a true sense comprehensive and activities associated with children were minimal. I personally really liked the museum because it offered me an opportunity to see diverse culture as well as evolution of Native societies in addition to specific tribes. The members of staff in this museum were willing to help me as I toured the museum. I was impressed by the masterpieces of Degas, Rembrandt, Vermeer, Van Gogh, as well as Matisse. I also enjoyed seeing the sculptures representing the the Greek and the Roman culture, the Asian art, arms as well as armor, American and African sculptures, European decorative and arts, among many others.

I also viewed the Middle Ages along with Rennaissance European classical paintings and the self portrait of the famous Van Gogh. At semi-outdoor hall I met the giant Michelangelo together with Bernini statues that were made by the Reconnaissance sculptors (Winifred & Henry, 2007).  However, majority of the Chinese porcelains had been vandalized at the time of the Opium War along with the Boxer rebellions following Qing Dynasty trounce. Although these artifacts had been kept well, the barbaric actions that were associated with China incursion followed by looting of inherent historical artifacts could not spare the treasured museum (Joan r, 1984).  The artifacts are best suited for a Chinese museum rather than an American museum. As l left the entrance, I felt a deep respect of the museum due to its potential willingness to maintain Chinese artifacts in a perfect state although could not help in condemning the looting, imperialism and invasion on the museum from a political and a nationalist perspective.

Joan, R, M., (1984). The publications of Gisela M. A. Richter: A Bibliography Metropolitan Museum Journal 17.

Winifred, E. H. & Henry, W. K., (2007). A history of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Gilliss Press

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Museums: Writing Exhibition Reviews

Alexis Clark

September 1, 2017

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Teaching art history, as with any discipline, comes with a set of obstacles: from the intellectual (how to make the past relevant to the present); to the technical (the problems of the digitization that distort image quality, scale, and size); and to the practical (the prickly but persistent question of what one does with an undergraduate degree in the history of art). What an art historian does—whether an undergraduate in a general education course or a tenured professor—is develop, extend, and/or deconstruct a discourse. Writing exhibition and book reviews plays a fundamental part in this discourse, as evidenced by the robust and vibrant community of scholars who submit reviews to H-France Review , Nineteenth-Century Art Worldwide , and the many other online and traditional print resources available in the field. For undergraduates (as the newest members of the field), I think that writing exhibition reviews can ensure their critical participation in that discourse. Exhibitions, in their appeal to broad and specialist audiences alike, are texts that tell their own stories about art, that increase students’ appreciation, and that catalyze further research into art history.

In my upper-level undergraduate course, Nineteenth-Century Art and Visual Culture, I asked my students to visit and review the Cincinnati Art Museum’s exhibit, Van Gogh: Into the Undergrowth with the intention that they would learn to put their classroom-based knowledge of art history into practice. I provided a series of prompts  for when they began the assignment. First, writing these reviews taught them to apply their research of the Barbizon School, Impressionism, and Symbolism—these had been studied in class prior to the trip—to analyze the exhibition’s claims and contents. Writing these reviews permitted them to apply their research in a directed way. Second, this exercise required students to repeatedly and thoroughly revise their work and write in a way that addressed non-specialists (like them). Finally, writing these reviews fulfilled my course’s overall pedagogical aims around visual analysis, research, and the recursive process of writing and editing.

Visual Analysis. Seeing is doing. Object-based analysis— technical properties, aesthetic qualities, and preservation issues—remains critical to art history as a discipline and acts as the starting-point for writing reviews. After taking a quick curator-led tour of Van Gogh: Into the Undergrowth , students took notes on the artworks of their choice; notes on these artworks would later form the foundation for ekphratic descriptions in their reviews.

About Undergrowth with Two Figures , the van Gogh painting that supplied the title for the exhibition, the first student-reviewer carefully describes how perfectly framed between several trees (and positioned rather unnaturally) stand a man and woman. The two are in line with the trees, and while not central to the composition, become the focus of the painting. It is through this couple that the viewer attempts to enter both the knotty forest and the equally thorny psyche of the artist. The composition is unsettlingly foreshortened, with dark sky between the crowded lines of trees in the background and cropped trees whose endless rows of trunks create an unsettling space that is somehow infinite yet enclosed. What is so unsettling here is that, though the painting depicts the outdoors, the viewer seems to enter a cramped nocturnal scene.

The student’s beautifully written formal analysis works through the technical and aesthetic properties of the painting and the biography of van Gogh, in order to effectively translate the painted image into written word. In addition to taking notes about the individual artworks, students were to attend to the organization and structure of the exhibition and then, in their reviews, interweave their analysis of the organization with their observations and analyses of the artworks. Deftly, the second student-reviewer scrutinized how the inclusion of works on paper drawn from the Cincinnati Art Museum permanent collection and placed at the end of the exhibition “seemed incongruous with the [content in the] rest of the exhibition.”

Researching . While writing exhibition or book reviews does not always require outside research, it is expected that reviewers write as experts, specialists, or, at the very least, well-informed members of the discipline. It is not sufficient to read only what had been literally written on the walls. So, while Van Gogh: Into the Undergrowth included extensive wall texts as well as quotes from van Gogh’s correspondence, the best reviews, as I emphasized to my students, tend to also assess the claims made in the catalogue and other print ephemera, websites, and audio tours. The catalogue especially helped each of the three student-reviewers to better understand the connection posited between van Gogh and his Barbizon predecessors.

  Any outside research conducted to write these reviews was to lead the students to position the exhibition within the historiography around the Barbizon School, Post-Impressionism, and van Gogh. In this way, students learned to see exhibitions as scholarly interventions and their reviews as their own type of intervention. I thus worked with students to locate biographies, translated art criticism and correspondence, and secondary sources that would permit them to write authoritatively and confidently. The third student-reviewer, for instance, researched primary sources, including criticism by Albert Aurier, to assess whether the Cincinnati exhibition deconstructed the myth around the life and work of van Gogh.

Workshopping, Revising, and Editing . Perhaps more than any other type of art-historical writing at the undergraduate level, reviews provide students with an opportunity to develop an individual perspective and stake a position in the field. Students formulated their thesis in the context of this one exhibition, which in turn acted as an automatic framework for their research and arguments. So, where the first student-reviewer contends that the exhibition resulted in “the production of a new legend of van Gogh as an artist dependent on his relationships (both personal and artistic),” the third student-reviewer, in comparison, observed that

By displaying a variety of depictions of nature by different artists in conjunction with those by van Gogh, the exhibition emphasized the artist’s interest in the relationship between humanity and nature, beyond the emotional relationship captured by other artists in his Symbolist circle.

Yet this exercise also required students to take a position, all the while maintaining a professional tone that eschews exaggerations and generalizations. Striking a balance between criticism and collegiality can be difficult for the most seasoned writer; but, for undergraduates with limited knowledge of the field, its historiography, and its participants and constituencies, this presented an especial challenge. For that reason, in my course, students read other exhibition reviews on van Gogh and members of the Barbizon School—they even read reviews that I had authored—to start to learn how to develop the appropriate tone. So, when that second student-reviewer presented potential pitfalls to the final room in Van Gogh: Into the Undergrowth , she requested that the curatorial team make “more discerning choices” and noted that “this room would have benefited from the addition of wall texts explaining each artist’s connection to van Gogh.” Taking such diplomatic tact required my students to mature as writers and thinkers.

I believe that this exercise not only bridged the gap between the classroom and the intellectual community beyond, but also had the fortunate pedagogical effect of prompting students to build new connections to art, art history, and their classmates. Observing the students post-trip, it was apparent to me that they formed bonds, even friendships and that those reluctant to contribute to in-class discussion became more enthusiastic participants in the course, primarily, I think, because they felt more a part of the field and, equally, more a part of the classroom community.

FinalVanGoghFilm

While my past classes have taken museum trips to write formal analyses, writing these exhibition reviews ultimately proved more successful, as testified to in this short film of students’ responses (link). Exhibitions and exhibition reviews provide students with an automatic structure in which to situate their formal analyses and observations about the exhibition structure and story, while also providing them with parameters for their research and arguments. Were I to do this exercise in the future, I may require students to read a bibliography in order to better prepare for their trip and undertake their post-trip research. Still, writing these reviews (see examples of the reviews here ) taught my students—many came to my course with limited or no knowledge of art history—how to become student-authors, student-educators and, ultimately, student-art historians.

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Mashpee Wampanoag

Our Interesting Museums USA

How to Write a Museum Essay?

At school, college or university, students are asked to write essays on a variety of topics. And if your homework is to write an essay about the museum, don’t worry. You can use useful tips from the article.

To begin, you need to choose which museum you would like to write about. Maybe you want to describe a museum that is in your city and that you like. To do this, you need to determine the type of museum. This can be done by using brief descriptions of different types of museums.

At the beginning of the development of the museum business, there was no clear classification of museums. They mostly kept small heterogeneous collections and had a common name, for example: “Museum of Antiquities”. Later, with the development of museum work, these institutions were considered specialized: historical, artistic, natural, and other museum profiles.

They were divided into groups according to functions, nature of assemblies, or other characteristics.

The type of museum is determined by its public purpose and aim. There are three types of museums:

• scientific and educational (mass or public). They are intended for the broad masses of the population (most of them);
• research, or academic, designed for professionals. They are created at academies, research institutes, have a narrow special nature;
• educational – designed for pupils and students. Created at schools, secondary special, and higher educational institutions for educational purposes.

The profile of a museum is determined by the main content of its funds and the connection with a particular branch of science, art, or production.

There are museums of the following profiles: historical, modern or old art, memorial, literary, natural, industry. Museums of each of these profiles can have an even narrower specialization, divided into species and subspecies. For example, museums of art profile include museums of fine arts, folk art, theater, music, etc., museums of natural history – geological, paleontological, botanical, zoological, etc., to branches – technical, agricultural, pedagogical, medical, etc.

Museums of Historical Profile

This group includes museums that collect, study, and exhibit materials about the development of society, significant historical events, heroic battles and victories, as well as tools, monuments of life, and culture. Preserving great values, museums of historical profile conduct extensive research and educational work. Depending on the nature and composition of collections, the tasks facing them, museums of the historical profile are divided into the following types: general history, military history, archeology, ethnography, history and architecture, and history and culture (museums or reserves).

Museums of art preserve, study and promote outstanding works of painting, graphics, sculpture, applied art, as well as folk art. The expositions of these museums cover the history of the development of this or that kind of art in the historical sequence, and exhibit works.

Art museums can be both modern and historical. Modern museums include works of art created by contemporary authors that reflect contemporary issues and events. Historical museums tell visitors about the virtues of the art of openings from the past. Creations are usually also relevant today.

Based on information about museums, you can determine the type of museum you want to talk about. If you have never visited a museum but need to describe it, use the Internet. You can watch videos and photos about the content, design, and idea of one of the museums that interest you. Read the information and transfer it to paper in the form of an essay.

What is the Structure of the Museum Essay?

To write a museum essay, you can use the basic rules for writing an essay.

• The Essay Starts with the Introduction. Any essay should begin with the introduction in which the general approach to a subject is covered, in our case the museum you choose, the introduction should contain the problematic task and answer to the question.
• The introduction should show the main idea of the text. The first sentences should be fascinating and tell about the content of the essay. For example “I think this museum is extremely interesting and I can confirm it with many arguments”.
• The Body of the Essay. The most important part of the essay is built to make the reader believe. To make the information convincing, the author of the essay must use strong arguments. In the body, you should first present the main ideas and facts that will prove the explanations of each of them.
• The conclusion. The essay should end with a conclusion. You should summarize all the information written above, confirm the thesis, and express your final opinion. The conclusion should consist of several sentences.

You can use this structure by writing not only museum essays, but also other types of essays. You can also find more examples on the Internet to see how other students cope with this task.

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A Visit To A Museum Essay – 10 Lines, Short and Long Essay

Key Points to Remember When Writing an Essay On Visit To A Museum

10 lines on visit to a museum, a paragraph on visit to a museum, short essay on visit to a museum in english, long essay on visit to a museum, interesting facts about museum for children, what will your child learn from the visit to a museum essay.

The  art of storytelling  has taken many forms over the centuries. One such form is  essay writing , a time-honoured tradition that offers a window into the writer’s world, thoughts, and experiences. Specifically, the essay on ‘a visit to a museum’ for kids evokes a sense of wonder and curiosity, making it a favourite topic among many students. This collection of essays in English offers children the opportunity to articulate their experiences and helps improve their linguistic skills, cognitive development , and  emotional intelligence . As we delve into this topic, we will explore the magic of museums through short and long essays, taking our young readers on a delightful journey of discovery and learning.

Writing about personal experiences can be a thrilling adventure. Delving into memories, especially of an enchanting day spent at a museum, can enrich an essay. While the essence of the experience remains deeply personal, certain guidelines can help structure and refine your ‘visiting a museum’ essay. Here are some essential points to remember:

Personal Touch: Always begin with a personal anecdote or memory. This grabs the reader’s attention and establishes a connection between the writer and the reader.

Descriptive Language: Museums are places of visual delight. Use vivid adjectives and descriptions to paint a clear picture in the reader’s mind.

Historical Context: If you encounter an artefact or exhibit that particularly intrigues you, delve a bit into its history. A small historical context can add depth to your essay.

Interactive Learning: Highlight any interactive experiences you had, be it a hands-on exhibit, a guided tour, or multimedia presentations. These elements can make your essay more engaging.

Emotional Quotient: Express how certain exhibits made you feel. Whether an artefact made you curious, sad, excited, or amazed, sharing emotions enriches the narrative.

Sequential Flow: While describing your visit, maintain a logical flow. Begin with your entry into the museum, moving on to the various halls, and conclude with your exit or overall impressions.

Concluding Thoughts: Always conclude your essay with a reflection on what you learned or how the visit impacted you. This gives your narrative a wholesome end.

Grammar and Vocabulary: Ensure your essay is free from grammatical errors. A well-structured ‘visiting a museum’ essay can leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Relevance: Make sure every detail you include is relevant to the theme of your essay. Avoid diverging into unrelated topics or memories.

For our younger learners, especially those in classes 1 & 2, essay writing can be an exciting journey of expression. Crafting an essay of ten lines is a great starting point to capture the essence of an experience. Here’s a succinct essay for classes 1 & 2 about a museum visit:

1. Last Sunday, I went to a museum with my family.

2. The building was grand, with huge doors and tall windows.

3. Inside, there were many rooms filled with old things.

4. I saw paintings, statues, and even old coins.

5. The biggest attraction was a huge dinosaur skeleton.

6. There was a section with colourful butterflies and birds.

7. The displays taught me about people who lived a long time ago.

8. The museum had a fun play area for kids like me.

9. I enjoyed watching a short film about the stars and planets.

10. I had a great time and learned many new things at the museum.

Here is an example of “A Visit to a Museum” essay in 100 words: 

Museums are magical places that transport us back in time. During my visit to a, I recall stepping into the grand entrance, surrounded by the whispers of countless stories from the past. As I wandered through the various exhibits, each artefact unveiled a tale, from ancient civilizations to glorious moments of human achievement. I was particularly enchanted by the art gallery, where colours danced and emotions came alive on canvas. The interactive section, designed especially for curious minds like mine, was an enthralling experience. With every step, I felt a deeper connection to the past, and as I exited, I left with a promise to myself to return and unravel more mysteries the museum held within its walls.

Museums, often described as windows to the past, have a unique way of weaving history, art, and culture into a tangible experience. On a sunny day last summer, I embarked on such a journey, visiting our city’s renowned museum. As I stood before its majestic facade, a rush of excitement filled me, anticipating the treasures inside.

Walking through the museum’s vast halls, I was transported to various epochs. The ancient civilization wing showcased relics of bygone eras, where intricate pottery and sculptures whispered tales of daily life, ceremonies, and legends. In stark contrast, the contemporary art section was a riot of colours and abstract thought, pushing boundaries and questioning societal norms.

The children’s section was an arena of interactive wonder. Touch, feel, and experiment stations made learning fun and fostered curiosity. I was particularly intrigued by the World War exhibit, where letters, uniforms, and black-and-white photographs told poignant tales of courage, sacrifice, and hope.

Concluding my visit, I sat in the museum’s lush gardens, reflecting on the whirlwind of emotions and knowledge I had acquired. That day, the museum was not just a place of artefacts but a living, breathing entity narrating the saga of human evolution, achievements, and creativity. It served as a gentle reminder of our shared heritage and the timeless nature of human expression.

Museums are bridges that connect us to epochs gone by, allowing us to walk the annals of history, art, and science. These magnificent institutions are places where time stands still, capturing moments and narratives from diverse cultures and eras. For students, especially those in class 3, writing an essay in 250 words or more on this topic can be an enlightening experience, as it brings forth a blend of personal memories interwoven with factual knowledge. Here’s a deeper dive into the world of museums.

What Is a Museum?

At its core, a museum is an institution designed to preserve, interpret, and showcase items of historical, cultural, artistic, or scientific significance. These places offer a tangible connection to the vast tapestry of human evolution and creativity. For a young learner in class 3, a museum serves as a vibrant canvas on which lessons from textbooks come alive, unfolding tales of wonder and intrigue.

A History Of Museum

The inception of museums can be traced back to ancient times. Originating from the Greek term ‘Mouseion’, the word denoted a place or temple honouring the Muses, the celebrated goddesses of the arts, science, and literature in Greek mythology. Initially, these establishments served as epicentres of education and intellectual pursuits. The Renaissance period witnessed a pivotal shift as private collections opened their doors to the general public. Over time, museums metamorphosed from elite sanctuaries to inclusive arenas of learning and enjoyment. Modern museums have further broadened their horizons, embracing digital technology and interactive displays to cater to the evolving interests of the public.

Importance Of Visiting Museum

A visit to a museum is not just an outing but an enriching journey filled with myriad benefits:

1. Educational Value

Beyond the confines of classrooms, museums offer an immersive learning experience. They complement academic studies, bringing theoretical knowledge to life and making it especially relevant when crafting an essay for class 3.

2. Igniting Curiosity

Museums are treasure troves of mysteries and stories. Their diverse exhibits, from ancient relics to state-of-the-art scientific wonders, inspire questions and deeper exploration.

3. Fostering Cultural Appreciation

Museums are gateways to various civilizations and cultures. They offer insights into diverse ways of life, promoting cultural appreciation and global-mindedness.

4. Personal Development

Museums inspire individuals by delving into tales of human perseverance, innovation, and creativity. They catalyze personal growth, nurturing empathy, introspection, and a broader worldview.

5. Quality Family Time and Recreation

Museums offer a harmonious blend of enlightenment and entertainment. They are ideal for families to bond, share experiences, and create lasting memories while engaging in collective learning.

Last summer, I visited the big National History Museum with my family. I was amazed to see old statues, shiny coins, giant dinosaur bones, and colourful paintings from long ago. Walking there felt like travelling in a time machine. I even saw a mummy, which was a bit spooky but cool! It was super fun, and I learned so much!

For the curious young minds, museums are like giant treasure chests filled with stories and wonders from the past. They are places where history, art, and science come alive, taking us on exciting journeys. Here are some intriguing facts about museums that will surely astonish and delight children:

1. Oldest Museum: The world’s oldest museum was built by a Babylonian princess around 530 BCE in what is now modern-day Iraq ( 1 ).

2. Huge Collection: The British Museum in London houses over 8 million works dedicated to human history, art, and culture, making it one of the most comprehensive collections in the world ( 2 ).

3. Louvre’s Popularity: The Louvre in Paris, home to the famous Mona Lisa painting, is the world’s most visited museum, attracting millions of visitors annually ( 3 ).

4. Museum of Broken Relationships: There’s a museum in Croatia dedicated entirely to showcasing items from broken relationships. Each item has a unique story behind it ( 4 )!

5. Museum Underwater: The Cancún Underwater Museum in Mexico has a collection of underwater sculptures you must dive to view ( 5 ).

6. Space Museum: The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., houses the world’s largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft ( 6 ).

7. Dedicated to Food: Japan has a museum dedicated to instant noodles, celebrating the invention and popularity of this quick meal ( 7 ).

8. Living Museums: Some museums, known as open-air or living museums, are outdoors and showcase historical buildings, crafts, and activities that transport visitors to different eras.

9. Night at the Museum: Certain museums worldwide host sleepovers where kids can experience the thrill of spending a night surrounded by exhibits ( 8 ).

10. Interactive Fun: Modern museums often have displays where children can touch, play, and learn. It’s not always about “Do Not Touch” signs!

Museums are not just places to view historical artefacts or admire beautiful artworks; they are educational powerhouses. When children write about their museum experiences, the learning extends beyond the institution’s walls. So, what exactly will your child gain from composing a ‘Visit to a Museum’ essay?

1. Historical and Cultural Appreciation: Writing an essay compels children to reflect on the diverse cultures, epochs, and narratives they witnessed. They’ll cultivate an appreciation for different eras, civilizations, and the broad tapestry of human history.

2. Analytical Skills: Describing exhibits, art pieces, or historical items requires observation and analytical skills. Children hone these critical thinking abilities by analyzing what they see and interpreting its significance .

3. Vocabulary Expansion: Museums introduce children to various subjects and terminologies, from ancient civilizations to modern art techniques. Writing about these subjects can expand their vocabulary and linguistic prowess.

4. Narrative Skills: Documenting a museum visit in essay format helps children structure narratives, craft a beginning, weaving the central content, and conclude their experiences effectively.

5. Enhanced Memory: Reflecting upon and writing down experiences can consolidate memories. Recalling specific details about the museum visit can enhance their memory retention.

6. Expressive Abilities: Children can articulate feelings by describing emotions evoked by certain exhibits or experiences, deepening their emotional intelligence and expressive capabilities.

7. Value of Research: If children are unsure about the details of an exhibit, they might delve into further research, cultivating a habit of seeking knowledge and ensuring accuracy.

8. Understanding Perspective: Museums house a myriad of exhibits from various perspectives—sociopolitical, cultural, or individual. Writing about these can introduce children to multiple viewpoints and the importance of context.

9. Personal Growth: Reflecting on the journey, the interactions, and the overall day can lead to personal revelations. Whether it’s a newfound passion for ancient history or a deeper understanding of cultural differences, personal growth is a definite takeaway.

10. Appreciation for Arts and Sciences: Whether marvelling at a piece of art or understanding the science behind an exhibit, children develop a well-rounded appreciation for the arts and sciences, recognizing their significance in shaping human civilization.

1. Which one is the biggest museum in the world?

The State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia, is often recognized as the largest museum in the world in terms of the total number of items held. It boasts a collection of over 3 million items. However, if we measure by gallery space, the Louvre in Paris, France, is the biggest, covering an area of around 782,910 square feet (72,735 square meters) of exhibition space. The distinction depends on the criteria being considered, whether the size of the physical structure, the number of galleries, or the volume of items in the collection.

2. What is the world’s most famous museum?

The title of the world’s most famous museum is often contested due to various criteria, such as size, collection, or visitor count. However, the Louvre in Paris often tops the list for its size and iconic collection, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Other contenders for this title include the British Museum in London and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, depending on the context of ‘famous.’

Museums are a bridge connecting us to the vast expanse of human history and creativity. Through a visit, one embarks on a journey of discovery, gaining insights into cultures, epochs, and narratives. Writing about these experiences, especially for young minds, not only sharpens their expressive skills but also instils a lasting appreciation for our collective heritage. In essence, museums are treasure troves, and essays about them unlock the wealth of knowledge they hold.

References/Resources:

1. The world’s oldest museums; The European Museums Network; https://museums.eu/highlight/details/105317/the-worlds-oldest-museums

2. About Us; The British Museum; https://www.britishmuseum.org/about-us

3. The most visited museums in the world; The European Museums Network; https://museums.eu/highlight/details/105664/the-most-visited-museums-in-the-world?gh_jid=5626008

4. Museum of Broken Relationships; York Castle Museum; https://www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk/exhibition/museum-of-broken-relationships/

5. MUSA; https://musamexico.org/

6. About the Collection; National Air and Space Museum; https://airandspace.si.edu/collections/about-collection

7. About; Cup Noodles Museum; https://www.cupnoodles-museum.jp/en/yokohama/about/

8. Sleepovers; The British Museum; https://www.britishmuseum.org/membership/sleepovers

Also Read: Essay on Visit To a Historical Place

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• Essay On A Visit To A Museum
• Post category: Essay
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Set 1: Essay On A Visit To A Museum 300 Words

The museum is an informative and instructive place. It gives us knowledge about our glorious past. The antique objects related to arts, science, and history throw light on the ancient civilization. I visited the famous museum of Mumbai on my last vacation. I went there with my parents and my sister. The museum is huge and worth seeing. It is divided into many sections related to different subjects. Several unique items are kept neatly. The name and a short description of every item were also displayed.

The first section that we visited, housed excavated things from different parts of our country. There were many carvings, statues, ornaments, and huge pots. There were earthen and metallic statues of different gods and goddesses. I saw the old type of stove used for cooking food for the first time. The next section was related to weapons. Here all the ancient weapons were displayed. I saw a giant original bow and arrows here. It also included swords, war uniforms, shields, and different protective types of equipment. The royal costumes, their crowns, and paintings were displayed there.

Then we visited the historical section. It contained our ancient holy books like Ramayana and Mahabharata . These were the original copies written on leaves. Paintings from Ramayana and Mahabharata were also showcased here. There was a small section of old coins in one corner. I like a small model showing ancient mints and the process of making the coins. We also saw the Art and Craft gallery. It contained different artifacts and handicraft items. Different kinds of dresses, bags, metal arts, musical instruments were placed in this gallery, I got a lot of information about the musical instruments and their names.

Finally, there was a publication unit. It showcased the catalogs, guide books, research publications, and picture postcards of the items displayed in the museum. We bought some greetings. cards and a guidebook of Mumbai city. I liked this museum very much. It was really an entertaining and educational visit.

Set 2: Essay On A Visit to a Museum

Our class was taken last week to visit a museum. We went with our history teacher. It took us more than three hours to see all the things exhibited in the museum. There was a fine and rare collection of all kinds of things. We first saw all the weapons used by human beings from early times to the present day. We realized the progress man has made in inventing deadly weapons. There were stone implements, bows and arrows, swords, shields, suits of amour guns and cannon.

In another section of the museum there were various kinds of stuffed animals. They had been stuffed very skilfully. It looked as if these animals were alive and real.

Those interested in literature and art could see paintings, ancient and modern and manuscripts of famous books.

The skills and craftsmanship of human beings could be seen in the brass and metal work, pottery, wood-work etc.

We never knew how quickly time passed as we went round the museum. All the exhibits were very interesting. A visit to a museum can prove useful to us in many ways. We can have a better knowledge of history, art, literature and zoology than that given in books. Everyone should visit a museum some time and add to his knowledge of various subjects.

Set 3: Essay On A Visit to a Museum

A museum is a repository (place) for the collection, exhibition and study of the objects of artistic, scientific or historic interest. The museum in Jaipur situated in Sawai Gardens is housed in a big building. It is very big museum and attracts many visitors every day.

Last year, I had a chance to visit this museum. It is really a treasure house of rare articles of arts and crafts and wonderful things of the past. I saw a life size statue of Lord Buddha. It was made of stone. A few bronze statues were also there.

They were thousands of years old and speak of India’s advancement in sculpture (an art of carving).

The museum is divided into sections. One section has pottery from Pune. The other section has brass-work of Jaipur. The third section has walnut screens from Kashmir. The fourth section has fossils of some old goods excavated from Harappa.

Some coins and ornaments of those days are also displayed there. How surprising it is to find that ladies 10000 years back were in no way behind the ladies of modern time of fashion in the use of ornaments and jewellery.

Another section has arms of past days. I saw a few heavy swords. I was told that those swords were of Rana Pratap and Shivaji. I saw a few coins of the Gupta period. There are numerous paintings of Rajput warriors. These paintings give an insight into the glories of Rajasthan.

The Health section contains skeletons of men and animals. They are carefully preserved. The skeleton of a horse is very striking as it shows the working of the organs of its body.

The visit to the museum was very interesting for me. It laid bare before e my mental eye the glorious past of India and the heroic life of people of Rajasthan.

Set 4: Essay On A Visit To A Museum 500 Words

Last week our class was taken to visit a museum . We went with our history teacher, Miss Harshada. School had arranged a bus. We were asked to carry a pen, a book, and our water bottles. However, we had to leave our water bottles on the bus. It took almost two hours to reach the museum. We all were very happy and excited to learn something new from this visit.

We visited one of the important Gandhi Memorial Museums in the country called “Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya’. As soon as reached, each one of us had to enter through a metal detector. It nearly took three hours to see all the things kept on display.

We came to know that Mani Bhavan was one of the few important places blessed by Mahatma Gandhi and his close associates. It was the place where Gandhiji lived from 1917 to 1934 and discussed different matters with his co-workers. Our teacher told that Gandhiji shaped the nation in the image of his important principles of truth and non-violence. He inspired his followers and believers to encourage others with a sense of service and sacrifice.

The teacher asked us to maintain discipline and silence. All were instructed to walk in a single straight queue. She further told us that Mani Bhavan is known as a Research Institute in Gandhian Thought and Rural Development. Until now, I had gathered some important facts.

Now it was time to start our actual visit. We were first taken to a library on the ground floor. The librarian informed us that the library had more than 50,000 books. The collection contained books by and on Gandhiji, his thoughts, and similar subjects.

Now we were taken to the first floor where there was an auditorium. Here films on Gandhiji were shown. Even recordings of his speeches could be played on request. The auditorium was also used for holding meetings, discussions, and various school and college competitions.

Now we were asked to walk upstairs on the second floor. The room on this floor was used by Gandhiji as his living room and working place. We learned that the room was preserved as far as possible in its original setting. Next to this room was the display of about twenty-eight tables. This display showed incidents in Gandhiji’s life through mini-figures.

We also saw a picture gallery showing the important events in Gandhiji’s life. It displayed posters describing major events and photocopies of some letters, articles, and documents written by and about Gandhiji. There were captions in Hindi and English languages. We were told that the terrace of the building was used by Gandhiji to hold his prayers and to sleep.

My wonderful visit to such an educational place was just about to end. It was time to get back on our bus. Before I entered the bus, I bought Gandhiji postage stamps and his beautiful white statue from the sales counter. Really, it was a very successful visit.

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Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Writing a Museum Catalog

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A museum catalog is typically a book written in regards to a current exhibition. For example, an exhibition of Victorian paintings concerning the legend of King Arthur could be on display at the British Art Museum. The title could be: The Marriage of History and Legend: The Victorian Revival of King Arthur . While the museum exhibit itself might have wall text with a brief introduction to the exhibit as well as having text panels for each piece, anyone wanting more information on the theme of the exhibit might be interested in purchasing a catalog.

Title Page & Table of Contents

The title page of a museum catalog is crucial – you need to think of an image that completely encompasses the theme of your exhibition. Many times the more famous or iconic work of art in the exhibition is on the title page with the title. For The Marriage of History and Legend: The Victorian Revival of King Arthur an image of King Arthur pulling the sword out of the stone would be the best candidate in this regard.

Always provide a table of contents for the museum catalog. Include the introduction, main scholarly essays, a list of the work of arts, notes/bibliography section.

Museum Gallery Guide

Depending on the scope of the project one might choose to provide a gallery guide for your audience – a visual representation of where the pieces will be on display. Having an exhibit in a large space could lead individuals to find specific works of art they might want to see, whereas a smaller space means that a guide would not be necessary.

Include visuals of the exhibit space, an outline of the shape of the objects and where they are located, including building structures such as exit signs, and a key for your user.

Museum Catalog Introduction

Museum catalogs begin with an introductory essay to the theme of the exhibition. Often parts of the introduction are reprinted and displayed with the exhibition itself while the longer introduction is contained in the catalog.

Approaching the introduction to the exhibition is similar to tackling any typical research essay. First, grab the audience’s attention and provide some sort of thesis statement concerning the exhibition. What is the main goal of the exhibition? To back up a thesis statement consider what piece of art to include. The pieces of work on display do not exist in a vacuum. Similar to providing textual quotes to argue a literary essay, art historians use ‘art’ as their evidence to argue their thesis as well as providing primary and secondary sources. It is best to introduce some of these major works of art in the introduction. The following examples include an introductory grader and the thesis or purpose of the exhibition:

Grabber : At the end of the legend made most famously by Thomas Malory in 1469, King Arthur lies in a bloody field with a broken body and spirit…The tragic story of Arthur, frequently referred to as The Once and Future King , is a story with no definite ending. Subsequently, the legend is reinvented countless times, often during times in history when the mythology can be re-defined to fit into modern context.

Thesis: The museum exhibit titled The Marriage of History and Legend: The Victorian Revival of King Arthur surveys Victorian England’s fascination with the medieval past as seen through the art movement of the Pre-Raphaelites, the Gothic Revival, and Romanticism. Queen Victoria is studied in association with the ideas of a model monarchy and the ideal relationship expected between the sexes. Along with those ideas, the exhibit scrutinizes the dangers associated with women who tried to break away from their traditional roles. Lastly, the exhibit focuses on the Arthurian legend becoming something “real” and tangible to which the everyday individual can truly relate and aspire to.

Another strategy to consider in an introduction is the use of segments. Many times an introduction can be broken into segments – the main point of the introduction is to introduce the focal pieces of the exhibition and how they relate to the theme of the exhibition.

Segments for this examplewould consist of a few pages to discuss the Pre-Raphaelites, Gothic Revival, Romanticism, Queen Victoria, Albert the Good, and Arthurian character descriptions. These topics can be discussed furthermore in the actual focal pieces but by providing information in the introduction more of your analysis can focus on the art piece and only mentioning historical context – but that is up to your own discretion. If you mention a main work of art in the introduction and discuss later in the catalog it is best to write [Figure 1] and when you cite the work of art provide before the information [Fig 1] , etc.

Typically pieces that are not on display but are relevant to the exhibition can be cited in this section. For example – when discussing Victorian art culture in relation to King Arthur it would be important to discuss Gothic architecture and then provide an image as an example. The introduction should provide historical and thematic context for the exhibit.

Museum Catalog Entry

Depending on the project a museum catalog will either contain small academic essays or decide to focus on the pieces of work in the exhibition. In the case of academic essays just keep in mind that catalogs typically focus on ‘mini themes’ in the exhibit. For The Marriage of History and Legend: The Victorian Revival of King Arthur it would be beneficial to have one essay on Tennyson’s literary work that would then contain pieces of art work (mostly in the exhibition but some can be provided as outside examples) and how Tennyson’s work relates to the theme of the exhibit.

If you want to just focus on art pieces and not academic essays, catalog entries are typically no more than 500 words and include a brief historical scope of the piece as well as a formal analysis of the piece.

For information on how to cite a work of art in MLA, see the OWL page MLA Works Cited: Other Sources .

Catalog Entry Example:

Edward Burne-Jones, The Beguiling of Merlin , 1874-76. Oil on Canvas. Board of the National Museums and Galleries on Merseyside (Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port Sunlight)

A contrasting Vivien from the time is the Edward Burne-Jones version titled The Beguiling of Merlin , in which his Vivien again takes the name Nimue. In this version, Burne-Jones depicts Nimue as a maiden striving to protect her virtue. She is seen more as an anguished deity than a demonic villainess (Silver, 258). Her costume is typical of a Greek goddess and she wears a serpent headdress similar to Medusa. The serpentine forms of her snaky headdress are repeated in the folds of her indigo dress, in the roots of the trees, and “branches while like tentacles surround the failing man.” (Whitaker, 245) The model for Merlin was the American journalist W.J. Stillman whose face was damaged in a childhood accident, making his hair unusually white for his age. Nimue was Maria Zambaco, who Edward Burne-Jones was deeply in love with; when their relationship was over, Burne-Jones was depressed for many years, and Zambaco was suicidal. In a letter written during 1893, Burne-Jones wrote to his friend Helen Gaskell saying, “I was being turned into a hawthorn bush in the forest of Broceliande- every year when the hawthorn buds it is the soul of Merlin trying to live again the world and speak- for he left so much unsaid” (245). Vivien stands in the foreground, a dominant position that is usually reserved for men. She holds in her hand Merlin’s book of spells, towering over Merlin who cowers under her powerful gaze. Burne-Jones uses his art to express a psychological problem of an artist who is “reduced to impotence by a woman’s supremacy and his own lust” (245).

Works Cited

Silver, Carole “Victorian Spellbinders: Arthurian Women and the Pre-Raphaelite Circle,” in The Passing of Arthur: New Essays in Arthurian Tradition (New York: Garland Pub., 1988), 257.

Whitaker, Muriel A. The Legends of King Arthur in Art , 245.

Bibliography

Make sure to include a bibliography for a complete work of artwork used and cite any primary or secondary sources used in your research.

An Architect’s Guide To: Museum Planning

A museum is like an intricate exhibition. It is a collection of history, culture, and knowledge curated to be showcased to the world. Each one being unique, tells us a story differently to display public enjoyment and education. The key elements of a museum are : 

• a) collection or documentation
• b) exhibition or display
• c) conservation
• d) research 
• e) education 

Museums are rather meticulously planned. Taking into consideration the strategic planning, development, and organization of one, many elemental factors play a role. An architect plays a vital role in the design of a museum. The building structure lays out the visitor experience along with heritage and cultural storytelling. The many factors that play a role in museum planning are : 

a) Purpose and Conceptualization 

While many types of museums are developed around one purpose, to learn to differentiate and categorize them under a type is necessary. The types of museums can be artistic, historical, scientific, futuristic, agricultural, etc. Defining the purpose according to the documentation and collection is mandatory. Choosing a niche helps in a thorough understanding of the requirements ensuring that the design accommodates the museum’s diverse activities and facilitates smooth circulation for visitors and staff.

b) Site Selection 

The type of museum may be a part of considering the location of it. For example, if it is a historical museum, it could be a part of the historical site. The approach and accessibility towards the site location is an equally important decision, if not it is to have transportation facilities. Surrounding amenities also play a vital role in site selection. 

c) Spatial Design and Circulation 

Architects are to first create a zonal diagram to get an initial idea of circulation. This diagram can be largely divided into publicly accessible areas and non-accessible areas (staff). It could be further classified into exhibit zones, dining facilities, public amenities, and administrative areas. Spatial hierarchy that tells a story through public movement is to be achieved to allow for an overall spectacular visitor experience. Staircases, escalators, and lifts will need to be designed following the local building regulations. 

d) Material

Material selection is a critical aspect of museum design as it needs to cater to the needs of different spaces. The key factors in deciding on a material are durability, light sensitivity, acoustic performance, fire resistance, aesthetic appeal, and maintenance and cost-effectiveness. 

e) Lighting and Atmosphere 

The lighting and ambiance of a museum are a crucial part of the visitor experience. The ability of the lighting systems to provide a balance in the natural and artificial lighting of spaces enhances the views of the artifacts and circulation zones. Play of light and shadow, rhythmic and abstract lighting, natural lighting systems, bright and dim lighting, warm and cool lighting, knowing the differences between these lighting systems and the areas needed for each type is mandatory. 

f) Integration of Technology 

Technology is an ever-developing field. When it comes to technology in a museum, it could have many variations. The use of holograms, headsets-Bluetooth audio systems, VR tours, light adaptive systems, etc are the inclusions of innovative museum technology to make the visitor experience better. By integration of technology, the audience stays more intrigued and this fosters curiosity, learning, and appreciation. 

g) Conservation and Sustainability 

The use of environmentally friendly materials like wood, concrete, glass etc can be used. Green walls and green roofs can be included to enhance biodiversity and biophilic architecture concepts. Water conservation methods like rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, etc can be done to have efficiency in water usage. LEDs, solar lamps, and smart lighting control systems can help in utilizing energy effectively. Natural lighting through glass windows and skyroofs can be an excellent addition as well. The incorporation of solar panels, wind turbines, etc helps in reducing carbon emissions. 

h) Accessibility and Inclusivity 

The art of beautiful design follows universal integrity. Ensuring that the overall visitor experience is of value to all, including ramps, elevators, tactile floors, Braille systems, etc to ease the circulation for impaired persons. Providing multi-sensory experiences that cater to different persons is an additional option. Flexible seating arrangements are to be included to accommodate visitors with disabilities. 

i) Staff and Storage 

Hiring staff for different sections of the museum is mandatory. Staff can be categorized into: security staff, entrance and help desk staff, visitor guides, culinary staff, management staff, administrative staff, etc. Storage spaces are a must for an experience center. It is to be segregated according to its purpose and size to accommodate what the museum needs respectively.

j) Overall Visitor Experience 

Inclusions of proper wayfinding and navigation through signages, landmarks, sightlines, spatial sequences, and lighting ensure an overall ease of experience. Quiet areas, adequate seating spaces, water features, etc bring on a lasting impression and foster curiosity.

k) Community Engagement 

It is a vital aspect as it enhances and encourages connections on diverse interests and social gatherings. Bringing in cultural sensitivity helps to identify the type of communities that come in through which programs and events can be planned. 

The process of museum planning is rather intricate as it involves the many concepts of detailed design, thoughtful material selection, innovative techniques and technologies, unique platforms, and purposeful concepts. The architect is to ensure all of the above by considering the standards and safety codes to make it wondrous. The success of a museum lies in its welcoming nature, the knowledge it provides, the curiosity it initiates, and the community it serves. 

REFERENCES:

• Facility Executive Magazine. Design & Construction for better museum building and experiences. 24/02/2021. https://facilityexecutive.com/museum-building-design-construction/
• How to start a museum: A beginner’s field guide | constant contact. https://www.constantcontact.com/blog/how-to-start-a-museum/
• Walshaw,E. Journal. An architect’s guide to: Museum planning. 08/03/2022. https://architizer.com/blog/practice/details/architects-guide-museum-planning/

IMAGE REFERENCES:

• https://portfolio.cept.ac.in/2020/M/fd/digital-processes-and-techniques-in-design-id4009-monsoon-2020-3772/rethinking-museum-spaces-monsoon-2020-pg190811
• https://www.constructionspecifier.com/new-developments-in-museum-lighting-design/
• https://www.arloopa.com/blog/ar-technology-in-museum
• https://wheelchairtravel.org/review-visiting-the-amsterdam-museum-in-a-wheelchair/amsmuseum-entrance-ramp/

A nature lover who is passionate about art and design which only helped widen the multidisciplinary perspective of architecture. Juggling between being a full time architect, an entrepreneur and a budding writer she also tries to fulfill her travel diaries and takes ballet lessons.

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Juneteenth 2024 events around Phoenix: 10 places to celebrate Black culture and excellence

Juneteenth is observed on June 19 to commemorate the effective end of slavery in the United States.

The occasion was first celebrated in Texas in 1865 during the aftermath of the Civil War, after enslaved people had been declared free by the 1863 Emancipation Proclamation.

Juneteenth commemorations have been occurring in Arizona long before the observance was recognized as a federal holiday.

This year, events all across the Valley will honor, educate and celebrate Black history, culture and achievements. Events include food, music, performances, arts and crafts, reflection, vendors and community building.

Here are Juneteenth 2024 celebrations in metro Phoenix.

Is Juneteenth a federal holiday?

Yes. Juneteenth is a federally recognized national holiday in the United States.

When was Juneteenth made a federal holiday?

President Joe Biden enshrined Juneteenth as the 11th American federal holiday on June 17, 2021.

Is Juneteenth always on June 19th?

Yes, Juneteenth always occurs on June 19 each year.

Why is it called Juneteenth?

Even though the Emancipation Proclamation was signed in 1863, it did not immediately take effect in places still under Confederate control, including the state of Texas.

On June 19, 1865, 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, and announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved Black people in the state were free by an executive order. The newly freed people came to call the day Juneteenth.

Where was the first Juneteenth celebration?

Early Juneteenth celebrations involved prayer, family gatherings and annual pilgrimages to Galveston by former slaves and their descendants. The day continued to be cherished in Texas for decades, according to Juneteenth.com .

Juneteenth 2024 events in metro Phoenix

Phoenix: juneteenth celebration at desert botanical garden.

The Desert Botanical Garden will commemorate Juneteenth with a stroll through the trails and a day filled with activities that celebrate Black culture and traditions.

An evening market will have local artists, vendors, music, food and fun. The Ottosen Entry Garden will have a Reflection Zone, the Amphitheater features a Kids Zone, the Binns Wildflower Pavillion will have a Wellness Zone, the Ullman Terrace will include musical performances and Sunset Plaza will have music, food trucks and the market.

Details: 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, June 11. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. Free with community day reservation. 480-941-1125, dbg.org .

Chandler: Juneteenth Freedom Week

Chandler will celebrate Juneteenth Freedom Week with two days of events.

Culture Music in the Park is at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 15, at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park West, presented by Chandler’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Division, the South Chandler Self-Help Foundation and the Ready, Set, Go! Foundation.

The free event will include music by Vaughn Willis & Ear Candy, food from local vendors and misters to keep you cool. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.

The DEI Division and South Chandler Self-Help Foundation also present the annual Miss Juneteenth Arizona Scholarship and Pageant.

It's at 6 p.m. Friday, June 14, at the Chandler Center for the Arts and helps young women understand their heritage and develop their self-esteem and passion for life. Contestant workshops focus on Juneteenth history, career opportunities, budget, financial planning and current events.

Details: Friday and Saturday, June 14-15. Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave. Miss Juneteenth Pageant tickets start at $20. www.chandleraz.gov .

Phoenix: George Washington Carver Museum Juneteenth Festival

The George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center will hold its inaugural Juneteenth celebration at one of Phoenix's only remaining Black historic landmarks . There will be live music, food trucks, arts and crafts, storytelling, exhibits, vendors and an artist showcase.

Details: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 15. George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, 415 E. Grant St., Phoenix. Free. 602-675-4755, carveraz.org .

Tempe: Juneteenth Celebration

The Tempe History Museum’s African-American Advisory Committee will host its 11th annual Juneteenth Celebration with activities, performances, vendors, story time, a video game trailer, police and fire vehicles and food truck vendors.

Details: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 15. Tempe History Museum, 809 E. Southern Ave. Free. 480-350-4311, tempe.gov .

Phoenix: Juneteenth Freedom Celebration

Rep Your Brand Enterprise will host its fourth annual Juneteenth celebration at Footprint Center. The event includes drum lessons, over 50 Black-owned small businesses and performances by the Sankofa West African Drum and Dance on Stilts and the Pretty Precise Step team. There will be giveaways and raffles as well.

Details: Noon-6 p.m. Saturday, June 15. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. Free. eventbrite.com .

Scottsdale: Community Juneteenth Celebration

Scottsdale presents its Juneteenth Celebration at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. There will be indoor and outdoor activities, food, uplifting music, family-friendly entertainment, educational speakers, art displays and wellness resources.

Details: 2-7 p.m. Saturday, June 15. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St. Free. 480-312-3111, scottsdaleaz.gov .

Tempe: Juneteenth Block Party

Tempe's Juneteenth Block Party is on June 15 at CenterPoint Plaza. The evening will include musical performances from emcee Teri Tobin, spoken word from Urban Poet, DJ sets from DJ Panic and DJ AKSHEN and performances from the Furious Styles Crew.

There will be an Ars Poetica station with haikus, food from Kingpin BBQ and 28 Still Cooking, adult beverages, dessert from Flav-Oh’s and Sunset Freeze, a Hip-Hop Barber Battle, retro roller rink, jump rope with 40plus Double Dutch Club and The Doorways, an interactive art experience.

Details: 7-11 p.m. Saturday, June 15. CenterPoint Plaza, 730 S. Mill Ave., Tempe. Free. downtowntempe.com .

Phoenix: Valley of the Sun Juneteenth Celebration at Eastlake Park

Now in its 20th year, the Valley of the Sun Juneteenth Celebration at historic East Lake Park includes entertainment from local musical and arts performers, community groups and schools, free health screenings, educational workshops, a youth essay contest, children’s activities, arts and crafts, vendors, games and authentic soul food.

Details: 5-10 p.m. Saturday, June 15. Eastlake Park, 1549 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. Free. 623-282-1555, phxjuneteenth.com .

Goodyear: Juneteenth Family Day

Goodyear’s Juneteenth celebration includes speeches, live performances and activities. Attendees will learn about the history and significance of Juneteenth and engage in the community through workshops and activities. There will also be local businesses, food vendors and performances from Sandra Basset & Choir, United Dance Team and Kawambe-Omowale African Drum and Dance Theatre.

Details: 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, June 19. Goodyear Recreation Campus, 420 Estrella Parkway, Goodyear. Free. goodyearaz.gov .

Tempe: 2024 Juneteenth Celebration at Arizona Heritage Center

The Arizona Heritage Center will host its annual Juneteenth Celebration where community members can connect with each other and with organizations representing historical societies, action groups, state resources and communities at large. There will be performances, activities and food. RSVP at the Arizona Heritage Center’s website.

Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, June 16. Arizona Heritage Center, 1300 N. College Ave., Tempe. Free; a $10 Supporter Admission Pass option benefits future programming. arizonahistoricalsociety.org .

R each the reporter at   [email protected] . Follow   @dina_kaur  on X, formerly known as Twitter.

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‘Old’ Amsterdam Looks Back at New Amsterdam Through Indigenous Eyes

The violent history of the Dutch colony that is now New York is not well known in the Netherlands. The curators of a new exhibition want to change that.

By Nina Siegal

Reporting from Amsterdam

In the language of the Lenape Indigenous people, the word for European explorers who crossed the Atlantic in the 17th century to settle on their lands was “shuwankook,” or “salty people.”

The term first applied to the Dutch, said Brent Stonefish, a Native American spiritual leader, because they emerged from the sea to first trade with, then exploit and kill, his Lenape ancestors.

“The Dutch were basically those who ran us out of our homeland, and they were very violent toward our people,” he said in an interview. “As far as I was concerned, they were the savages.”

So, when the Dutch Consulate in New York approached Stonefish to ask if he’d help commemorate the anniversary of the 1624 establishment of the first Dutch settler colony, New Amsterdam, he was taken aback.

“They wanted us to celebrate 400 years of New Amsterdam, and we’re like, ‘No, that’s not going to happen,’” he said. “At the same time, I thought it was an educational opportunity,” he added. “We had a lot of hard discussions.”

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