WHAT MAKES AN EXHIBITION TITLE DESIGN SUCCESSFUL?
How do you know if your exhibit logo will connect with your audience and do all the heavy-lifting in promoting your exhibit?
Its relation to and balance with the main subject
My favorite part of exhibition planning and designing is the research. The more you can relate a title design back to its subject, the more useful it will be for visitors to understand and be excited about what is on view. This can be as simple as using a typeface that was popular during the time of the subject or including a small graphic element that represents the theme of the exhibition.
Creating those visual cues can be a great tool, but always keep in mind the subject matter of the exhibition. Tonal balance with what is on view is important.
It's also important to remember the exhibit logo isn't what is on view. The title design should not overshadow any hero image used in marketing.
Its legibility and versatility
Your exhibit logo could be seen as a thumbnail on your website or life-size on your title wall. So it’s important that it is clear and easy to read.
Also, keep in mind that it could be used on a calendar, opening ceremony invitation, or in-gallery guide. It shouldn’t be too difficult to print or read at a small size.
Its alignment with a museum’s branding standards
In thinking about all of the different ways your title will be viewed, many of them are probably alongside your museum’s logo or funding information. An exhibition’s title is not subject to strictly follow your museum’s branding, but it can be a helpful tool for your audience to recognize your institution. One trick is to set the main title in a unique and interesting typeface and to style the subtitle or funding information following the museum’s branding standards.
Remember, this is about propelling your marketing and saving you time. A successful title design will keep your audience interested and engaged with your future content. Win-win-win!
Want some inspiration? Keep reading to see some great examples of museum exhibit logos.