Curator how-to

How to Write Exhibit Labels Visitors Read

Visitors skim.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Visitors skim. In short: lead; keep; use, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Lead with what’s interesting.

  2. Keep it short.

  3. Use plain words.

  4. Ask a question.

  5. Connect to the big idea.

  6. Test with visitors.

Safety reminders for curators

  • Handle objects carefully
  • Follow conservation rules
  • Follow ethics on acquisitions
  • Follow security procedures

Collection · Accession · Provenance · Conservation · Exhibition · Deaccession: see the full curator glossary.

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