Exhibition

EXHIBITION

An Exhibition is a systematic display of models, specimens, charts, photographs, pictures, posters, information etc. in a sequence around a theme to create awareness and interest in the community. This method is suitable for reaching all types of people. Exhibitions may be held at the village, block, sub-division, district, state, national and international levels. Though an exhibition is organized around a major theme, other related themes and some unrelated items like entertainment may also be included. While school functions and inter school activities are going on exhibitions can be organized as part of these activities. Exhibitions may also be organized by taking advantage of local fairs and festivals. In fixing dates for exhibition, the weather condition and the schedule of other activities and programs may be kept in view.

Objectives

1.     To acquaint people with better standards and information.

2.     To create interest in a wide range of information.

3.     To motivate people to adopt better practices.

Technique

Planning and preparation

1.     Form a Steering Committee and suitable Sub-Committees with the specialists, local leaders and administrators.

2.     Decide on the theme and the organizations to be involved.

3.     Prepare a budget. Estimate and procure funds.

4.     Decide on the venue, time and duration

5.     Prepare a written programme and communicate to all concerned in time. Keep some cultural and recreational programmes in the evening.

6.     Get the site ready within the scheduled date. Make provision for essential facilitites.

7.     Earmark a stall for display of exhibits to be brought by the different departments..

8.     Arrange a pandal for holding meeting, training and entertainment programmes.

9.     Display posters at important places. Publicize about the exhibition through mass media.

10.            Decorate the stalls simply and tastefully. Make adequate arrangements for lighting. Use special-effect lights where necessary.

11.            Prepare good quality and colourful exhibits which shall convey the desired message to the visitors. Use local materials as far as possible. Label the exhibits in local language with bold letters.

12.            Display exhibits about 50 to 60 cm above the floor of the stall, upto a height of about 2 meters. Maintain proper sequence. Avoid overcrowding of exhibits. Take precaution against display of insignificant and unrelated exhibits.

13.            If possible, arrange action and life exhibits.

14.            Train up interpreters and allot specific duties. For a long duration exhibition, arrange rotation and replacement of personnel.

15.            Exhibits can include a range of displays, models, posters, pictures, photographs and maps etc.

Implementation

1.     Organize formal opening of the exhibition by a local leader or a prominent person.

2.     Arrange smooth flow of visitors.

3.     Let the interpreters briefly explain the exhibits to the visitors so that the intended message is clearly communicated. Distribute publications during visit.

4.     Organize a panel of experts to be present nearby, so that the visitors who would like to know more or discuss some problems could get the desired information.

5.     Conduct meetings, training programmes etc. as per schedule during the day time. Use the pandal at night for entertainment programmes.

6.     Arrange judging of exhibits brought by the public and give away prizes and certificates.

7.     Keep the exhibits and the premises clean. Replace exhibits as and when necessary.

8.     If desired, judge the stalls on the basis of their quality of display, ability to draw visitors and effectiveness in communicating message, and award certificates.

9.     Conclude the exhibition as scheduled by thanking the participants and those who have helped.

Follow-up

1.     Meet some visitors personally and maintain a visitors' book for comments during the exhibition to get feedback information.

2.     Talk to the local leaders and assess success of the exhibition.

3.     Ensure availability of critical inputs and facilities emphasized during the exhibition.

4.     Look for changes in practice in the community in the coming years.

Limitations

1.     Requires lots of funds and preparation.

2.     Cannot be held frequently.