Illustration Corner Mobile Exhibition Units

Press Kit

Unique Properties

Center of illustration presents Slovenian illustrations at home and abroad with the mobile unit Illustration corner. It is a modular and flexible system, that enables various ways of exhibiting and selling illustrations. The main challenge was how to protect and present illustrations in galleries and fairs. The carefully protected illustrations are displayed on portable exhibition elements, which are designed as foldable hangers. Flexible design system enables various setups in diverse contexts.

Dimensions & Packaging

Mobile unit: 150 x 80 x 180 cm

Tags

exhibition design, portable, art display, exposition, temporary, innovation, product design, mobile unit

Production Technology

Protected illustrations are displayed on foldable hangers made from aluminium. Additional elements, that programmatically upgrade the basic frame are made of MDF and orange plexiglas.

Design Challenge

The main challenge was how to protect and at the same time present illustrations in sales galleries and fairs. The works are packed in archival UV protection foils with passepartouts and placed on hangers, therefore being ready for the immediate sale.

Collaborating closely with the execution team, we meticulously tested prototypes to refine factors such as shape, weight, and assembly. This iterative process allowed us to fine-tune the functionality and aesthetics of the units, ensuring seamless integration into diverse exhibition settings.

Simultaneously, in partnership with graphic designer, we conceptualized and developed unique hangers to serve as tag names for featured artists. These custom-designed elements added a layer of sophistication to the presentation, enhancing the overall experience for visitors and contributing to the cohesive visual identity of the exhibitions.

Research

We conducted extensive research into diverse methods of exhibiting art, ranging from traditional gallery showcases to dynamic street fairs. Our exploration delved into the nuanced ways of engaging with artworks, whether presented individually or as part of a collection. We scrutinized examples across various platforms, including galleries, street fairs, retail spaces, and beyond.

Inspiration

The works are packed in archival UV protection foils with passepartouts and placed on hangers, therefore being ready for the immediate sale. Each metal frame has a drawer that stores the authors' additional works. The tabletop serves as an additional exhibition surface that is used for the presentation of different items. Modular frames can also be “dressed up” in portable panels with book shelves for book events. The elements are free-standing and dispersed in the space.

Project Duration

The project commenced in 2022 and debuted at the event Illustration Corner in the Minorite church in Maribor, during the first testing and presentation phase. Following this initial event, the system of mobile units was deployed for various events and fairs. In October 2023, the units underwent upgrades and were used for the exhibition, titled "Slovenian Illustration: An Unexpected Abundance at the Frankfurter Buchmesse 2023. The units quickly became integral elements of the Illustration Center's identity, gaining recognition for their distinctive presence and practicality.

Operation Flow

The elements are intentionally designed to be free-standing and dispersed throughout the exhibition space. This approach provides maximum flexibility in terms of layout and allows visitors to engage with the artwork from a variety of angles and perspectives.

Mobile units are constructed from aluminum, ensuring they are lightweight enough for easy transportation and assembly. They can be effortlessly assembled without the need for any tools or additional equipment.

Image Credits

Image #1 Photographer Ana Skobe, Illustration corner, 2022
Image #2 Photographer Ana Skobe, Illustration corner, 2022
Image #3 Photographer Ana Skobe, Illustration corner, 2022
Image #4 Photographer Ana Skobe, Illustration corner, 2022