Ever since I was a child, I have enjoyed visiting museums and art galleries, and have found it fascinating to observe how much and how vastly curatorial practices have changed in that time, with a seismic shift away from dusty dioramas to intelligent and creative displays.
These days a visit to an art gallery comes not only with the chance to view stimulating, witty, and carefully selected artworks and installations, but the opportunity to be wowed by the clever way in which these expositions are displayed. Something else that has changed over the years is the frequency with which exhibitions are turned around, with some galleries putting up fresh displays every second week – not an easy task when each new show demands fresh and meaningful conceptualisation.
Apart from the planning, the building of various structures, the lighting and finally the installation of the works, the starting point of nearly every single curation is almost always the painting of the space. No wonder as the colour of the walls, and how they are used affect the mood, the shape and lighting, and how well the artwork involves the viewer. Resene paint is favoured by so many local curators, which knowing this range inside and out, is hardly surprising, as Resene boasts a classic range of timeless paint products that transcend trends, and will enhance any gallery space. A long-term favourite is of course Resene Black White.
Words — Fran Ninow
