How to become an exhibit designer

Is becoming an exhibit designer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do exhibit designers do?
Career Satisfaction
Are exhibit designers happy with their careers?
Personality
What are exhibit designers like?

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How to become an Exhibit Designer

Becoming an exhibit designer involves a combination of education, relevant experience, and a strong portfolio demonstrating your skills and creativity. Here are the steps you can take to pursue a career in exhibit design:

  • Earn a Relevant Degree: Pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Exhibition Design, Museum Studies, Interior Design, Architecture, Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or a related discipline. Many exhibit designers have backgrounds in art, design, or architecture.
  • Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships or part-time positions related to exhibition design. Practical experience, even if unpaid, can provide valuable insights and help you build a professional network within the industry.
  • Develop Technical Skills: Acquire proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), 3D modeling software (such as SketchUp or Rhino), and multimedia editing tools. These skills are crucial for creating detailed design concepts and presentations.
  • Build a Portfolio: Create a strong portfolio showcasing your design projects, both academic and professional. Include sketches, digital renderings, 3D models, and photographs of completed exhibits. Your portfolio is a key tool for demonstrating your skills and creativity to potential employers or clients.
  • Network and Attend Events: Attend industry events, conferences, and exhibitions. Networking with professionals in the field can provide valuable insights, job opportunities, and mentorship. Join relevant professional organizations like the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) or the Society for Experiential Graphic Design (SEGD).
  • Pursue Advanced Education (Optional): Consider pursuing a Master's Degree in Exhibition Design or a related field to deepen your knowledge and skills. While not always necessary, advanced degrees can open up opportunities for higher-level positions and specialized projects.
  • Apply for Entry-Level Positions: Look for entry-level exhibit design positions, such as exhibit design assistant or junior exhibit designer, in museums, design firms, or exhibition companies. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences.
  • Continue Learning and Growing: Stay updated with the latest trends, technologies, and techniques in exhibit design. Continuous learning and professional development are essential in this field to remain competitive and innovative.
  • Gain Certifications (Optional): Consider obtaining certifications related to exhibit design or related areas. Certifications can enhance your credibility and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers.

Certifications
There are several certifications and professional memberships that can enhance your credentials and demonstrate your expertise in the field. Here are a few options:

  • Certified Interpretive Planner (CIP): Offered by the National Association for Interpretation (NAI), this certification is designed for professionals involved in interpretive planning, which is closely related to exhibit design. It demonstrates expertise in creating engaging and educational visitor experiences.
  • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED): While not specific to exhibit design, becoming LEED certified as a Green Associate or Accredited Professional (LEED GA or LEED AP) can be valuable if you're interested in sustainable exhibition design. LEED accreditation showcases your knowledge of environmentally friendly design principles.
  • Society for Experiential Graphic Design (SEGD) Membership: SEGD is a global community of professionals who create experiences that connect people to place. While not a certification per se, becoming a member can provide access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and a community of professionals in the field of experiential graphic design, which includes exhibit design.
  • Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP): If you are proficient in Autodesk software such as AutoCAD, becoming an Autodesk Certified Professional can validate your skills and enhance your credibility as a designer who uses these tools extensively.