Visual Information Specialist

Description:

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Designs/Draws (3D and 2D)
Plans and designs the visual presentation of a wide range of exhibitions and exhibit-related products representing virtually every field of study at the Smithsonian. These products include permanent and temporary three-dimensional science, art and history exhibitions and related exhibitry, graphic presentation of exhibit text and associated artifacts, and all other products associated with exhibitions such as case design, interactives and materials.
Works with various exhibit teams to conceive imaginative designs that meet the demanding criteria of originality, practicality, affordability, accessibility, sustainability, ease of production and maintenance, and appropriate aesthetics. Exhibits must be informative and engaging, must communicate exhibition content, and must be accessible to visitors of varied educational and cultural backgrounds, age, and abilities. The incumbent participates in exhibition planning as a member of the exhibit team that generally includes curators, content experts, editors, project managers, exhibit developers, and exhibit specialists. Prepares and presents – orally, with drawings, and in writing – the overall conceptual design, translating verbal theme statements or outlines into two- or three-dimensional tangible exhibitions. Produces hand-drawn and computer aided 2D and 3D illustrations and renderings using Vectorworks and Adobe Creative suite programs suitable for conceptualization, design development, and presentations. Creates scale models, prototypes, plans and elevations, graphics, finish boards, media and mechanical interactive concepts, etc. Organizes conceptual information into clear, coherent, and unified visual presentations. Communicates effectively at all levels, including with supervisors, clients, curators, colleagues and contractors. Is able to explain design concepts as a reflection of exhibition intent.
Plans construction methods for three-dimensional exhibitions that meet all federal accessibility, safety, security and conservation standards and the Smithsonian’s guidelines for exhibitions (Accessibility Guidelines, SD-410 guidelines). Using Vectorworks computer-aided drafting software, creates 2D and 3D detailed exhibition design and fabrication drawings and specifications for review by SIE and other SI units. Establishes space plans and traffic flow. Positions cases, artifacts, labels, photographs, illustrations. Designs and selects the techniques and fabrication methods for all exhibit components, such as the design of panels, labels, and banners; architectural design of gallery and layout; and fabrication of the exhibition furniture. Determines and specifies materials, colors, fabrics, paints, photographs and other components for use in exhibits. Research products for possible application and specifies sources for production. Cooperates with and considers recommendations from production and detailing staff and adapts drawings and specifications accordingly.
Uses design software including but not limited to the latest version of Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Bridge, and Acrobat) to create graphic designs and production files for exhibits, signage, and related materials. Manipulates digital images to maximize quality for print output. Collaborates with the writer/editor in establishing graphic presentation of text hierarchy; specifies style, size, and layout of type; selects colors; determines methods of reproduction for graphics and other museum exhibit elements. Works with the project manager to assure incoming images and object information meet the design needs. Takes a lead role in overseeing all aspects of technical presentation and visual communication for the exhibit.
Designs traveling exhibitions to reflect special needs of the client and exhibitors, such as size and weight requirements and/or ease in assembly. In addition, the incumbent must design the exhibition to accommodate in a variety of gallery settings.
Participates in the installation of exhibitions as required.
Management/Communication/Teamwork
Takes a strong lead role in the communication and development of exhibit concepts with the project team.
Keeps supervisor informed of problems that may arise and discusses proposed changes in plans that are significant in terms of cost or visitor experience. Proposes alternate solutions.
Communicates effectively at all levels, including with supervisors, clients, curators, colleagues, and contractors. Is able to articulate design concepts as a reflection of exhibition intent as well as scope of work and specific fabrication details as needed.
With project managers, may act as a liaison between client and SIE production shops.
The incumbent works closely with members of the exhibit core team: project managers, curators, researchers, writer/editors, project developers, production managers, etc. The incumbent is able to advise a client on the process and schedule. Develops preliminary budgets or works within specified cost limits. Collaborates with the specified Project Manager to establish a detailed schedule and budget to produce and install the exhibit. Produces designs compatible with budget targets through careful early estimates and exercising cost control during design.
May assist Project Managers in developing scopes of work, soliciting contractors for bid estimates, and monitoring work by outside contractors.
Maintains document records and drawing files that are well organized, clearly marked, concise and accessible, following SIE’s standards.