Designer: Exhibition
The Work
Exhibition designers work for clients who display their products on
stands at shows or exhibitions. These can be major international events
such as the Motor Show or the Chelsea Flower Show, or smaller displays
held in galleries, museums or libraries.
Exhibition designers first obtain full details of the exhibition itself, the products to be displayed and the space available. They work with the client, suggesting different techniques to present the products in an attractive way and to provide areas for viewers to circulate. They may use 3D computer graphics or models for this purpose and would be expected to know the cost of the proposals.
After final agreement designers prepare technical drawings and often supervise the construction and erection of the stands. These are usually built in sections in workshops before transport to the exhibition hall for final assembly.
Hours and Conditions
Basic design work is carried out in studios and offices where normal hours of 9am to 5pm would apply.
Designers must be prepared to work outside these hours when visiting clients or exhibition halls or venues. They may also be required to travel extensively in this country and abroad.
Skills and Interests
To work as a designer you need:
Training
On-the-job training is available at junior level, where vocational
qualifications can be studied at college by day release. City &
Guilds qualifications in computer aided design might be appropriate.
Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships (MAPPs) may be available for people aged 16-24. For details see:
MAPPs
(England)
Skillseekers
(Scotland)
National
Traineeships MAPPs (Wales) and
MAPPs
(Northern Ireland)
Opportunities
As an exhibition designer you might be employed as part of a team by an independent studio. Other employers include national and local government, and large organisations such as museums with their own design departments. There is a steady demand for the services of talented and experienced professionals. Promotion to team leader or partner would depend entirely on a successful record of work. Many designers work freelance and success depends entirely upon contacts and reputation.
Salary
The annual income section is intended as a guideline only.
Income for exhibition designers varies depending on ability, reputation and the type of employer.
Newly-qualified designers earn around £15,000 per year.
Experienced designers can earn £25,000 upwards per year.
Freelance designers may charge per exhibition and rates vary widely.
Further Information
Channel 4 is not responsible for the content of third party websites.
The Chartered Society of Designers
Tel: 020 7357 8088
www.csd.org.uk
British Display Society
Tel: 020 8856 2030
www.messiterdesign.co.uk/bds
Association of Exhibition Organisers
Tel: 01442 873331
www.aeo.org.uk
Arts Advice
Tel: 0800 093 0444
www.artsadvice.com
