Exhibition Proposal

HANNA HOLBORN GRAY SPECIAL COLLECTIONS RESEARCH CENTER

EXHIBITION PROPOSAL

Exhibition Program Mission

In support of the University of Chicago Library's mission to support research and teaching, the Hanna Holborn Gray Special Collections Research Center’s exhibition program seeks to:

  • Increase the visibility of the Library's collections
  • Present results of original research in the Library
  • Recognize recent acquisitions and significant gifts to the Library
  • Develop collaborations between the Library and other units of the University

The Special Collections exhibition schedule is typically planned 24 months in advance. Proposals for future exhibitions are reviewed on a quarterly basis. Preference is given to exhibition proposals supporting research and teaching based on original materials in Special Collections and in the Library. Special Collections is usually not able to host traveling exhibitions.

Exhibition Curator

Name and email of principal exhibition curator:

Department or academic program of principal curator:

Names, emails, affiliations, and subject expertise of any additional members of the curatorial team:

Abstract/Overview

What is the working title of this proposed exhibition?

Describe the exhibition in 250 words or less, including the main themes:

Has the Hanna Holborn Gray Special Collections Research Center or the University of Chicago Library hosted any recent exhibitions on this topic? (Consult this database for information on past exhibitions)

Have other institutions presented exhibitions on this or similar topics? Please provide details and note how this exhibition would be different:

What are the main learning objectives of the exhibition?

Why is an exhibition the best way to meet these learning objectives?

Organization and Materials

What would be the main organizational sections of the exhibition?

What types of items would be included in these sections?

Which materials from Special Collections have you identified for possible use in the exhibition?

Have you identified any materials from other parts of the University of Chicago Library to include in the exhibition?

Would the exhibition include any audio-visual materials? If so, please describe.

Would this exhibition require any items to be borrowed from elsewhere? If so, please identify the owner/s, list the items, and detail how each item would contribute to the exhibition.

Research and Writing

Who will be responsible for making the preliminary selection of items for the exhibition?

Who will be responsible for researching, writing, and editing the exhibition narrative panels, case text, item captions, and exhibition-related publicity materials?

Describe the type of research work that will be necessary to prepare the item selection and complete the writing. What is the estimated time frame for that work?

Supporting Events and Programs

Are there any preferred dates for the exhibition?

Would the exhibition mark a historic event or anniversary?

Does the exhibition relate to any other campus or local exhibits, events, or conferences? If so, please detail those, their date and location, and describe the role this exhibition would play in related programs.

What types of outreach events (gallery talks, tours, etc.) would support this exhibition?

Publication and Web Exhibit

Would the exhibition be accompanied by any print or online publications?

Would the physical exhibition be accompanied by a web exhibit?

What funding is available for these projects?