Abstract
Synergistic relationships can be classified as destructive or constructive where the first has interference which is detrimental to one or more of the components, and the latter is when two or more components interact resulting in a mutually beneficial relationship. The destructive relationship between fashion and freshwater mussels in the United States began in earnest during the late 19th century through the mid-twentieth century when mussel shells were harvested by the millions to supply the burgeoning mother-of-pearl button industry. Once plentiful, these important filter-feeders that clean the water in which they live, were fast becoming depleted from the world’s most diverse freshwater mussel habitat. Alabama rivers and streams are home to 182 of the 300 species of mussels in the United States. Due to over harvesting, building of dams, and pollution, 48 species of freshwater mussels are now federally protected in the state of Alabama, which is more than any other state. This poster examines how a synergistic constructive relationship was used to create a design focused display and broaden the visitor scope of a university museum exhibition featuring current freshwater mussel research in the United States and specimens from the museum’s collection. Incorporating objects of fashion diversified the subject matter and broadened the exhibitions focus and awareness. Using visual merchandising methods and techniques to develop a design concept for the exhibition cases resulted in a more aesthetically powerful, meaningful, and engaging educational narrative and experience designed to motivate and inspire the visitor.
Presenters
Marcy L. KoontzCurator, The Fashion Archive + Associate Professor, Clothing, Textiles, and Interior Design, The University of Alabama, Alabama, United States Kendra Abbott
Research and Outreach Coordiantor, Musuems, University of Alabama, Alabama, United States Wayne Reach
Carpenter, Building Maintenance, The University of Alabama, Alabama, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
KEYWORDS
Museums, Exhibitions, Exhibition Design, Visitors, Education
