Museography: Definition
Museography refers to the set of techniques and principles used to design, organize, and present artworks or heritage objects within a museum space. It encompasses spatial layout, scenography, lighting, signage, interactive devices, and visitor pathways.
Why is museography essential in the exhibition of artworks?
Museography goes beyond exhibition: it plays a role from the preparation of artworks, particularly during their installation and presentation. Well-designed museography allows:
- artworks to be showcased while preserving their integrity
- the environment to be adapted to conservation requirements
- cultural mediation to be facilitated for the public
It is also considered upstream, during the transport of artworks, to ensure consistency between the conditions of movement and those of display.
Museography and Preventive Conservation
Museography plays a key role in the preservation of artworks. It incorporates technical parameters such as:
- temperature and humidity control
- limitation of light exposure
- protection against vibrations or excessive handling
These elements are considered from the design stage of display cases, pedestals, or hanging systems.
Museography and Visitor Experience
Beyond conservation, museography aims to enhance the visitor experience. It structures the journey, creates atmospheres, promotes understanding of the artworks, and stimulates emotion. It may include:
- digital or interactive devices
- immersive scenographic choices
- explanatory texts and educational materials
Famous Example: Museography at the Louvre Abu Dhabi
The Louvre Abu Dhabi showcases contemporary museography, blending classical artworks with immersive technologies. The layout of the galleries, filtered natural light, and thematic pathways offer an experience that is both aesthetic and educational, while respecting conservation standards.
Museography is a discipline at the crossroads of art, technique, and mediation. It supports every stage of artwork presentation, ensuring their preservation and enhancing their value for the public.
