Eleventh International Conference on The Inclusive Museum

Abstract

In January 2017, the Arizona State University Art Museum showcased an exhibition titled “Francis Alÿs: Ciudad Juárez Projects.” This dimensional exhibition dually explored the works of Mexican artist Alejandro Morales and Belgian-born, Mexico City-based artist Francis Alÿs. The first part of the exhibition space explored the trailer container that Morales renovated and utilized to serve as a mobile art gallery to the community of Juárez, Mexico as a part of his initiative Proyectos Impala. The interior of the gallery highlighted works created by Alÿs for his “Ciudad Juárez Projects”. Alÿs created these works in collaboration with local artists during visits to downtown Juarez, near the international border, and to housing developments in the southern periphery of the city. This paper leads participants through the conception, creation, and implementation of the exhibition. Curator, Julio César Morales discusses the inspiration for the collaboration with Morales and Alÿs. He also shares the design strategies used in the space to create the visual narrative. Audience Experience Coordinator, Kathryn Medill then discusses the impact of the exhibition, referencing visitor feedback and reflections from tour groups and community members as support. Finally, Morales and Medill will share, from their perspectives as museum professionals, the importance of creating exhibitions that explore contemporary issues and consider the backgrounds of targeted audiences in both exhibition design and touring techniques.