Student-Led

Yard Signs

About

The Mulvane Student Advisory Board (MSAB) selected ten objects from the museum's permanent collection that related to the themes of the "There Is a Woman in Every Color" exhibition. These works were printed on metal yard signs and installed in the museum's courtyard. Text printed on an additional sign explained the installation and prompted viewers to think about ideas that are explored in the exhibition. The signs were visible to students, faculty, and staff at Washburn University as they walked through the courtyard, often stopping to look more closely, and to members of the surrounding community who visited campus. The outdoor installation provided an innovative way to engage passers by with the exhibition themes.

Intended Outcome

By taking art beyond the walls of the gallery, the Mulvane Art Museum’s goal was to spark interest and curiosity in the exhibition as well as its permanent collection. As most of the museum’s galleries were closed for renovation during this time, the staff aspired to create conversations throughout campus and among community audiences about Black women’s contributions to art and culture. They also hoped to direct people to the exhibition for deeper connection.

Actual Outcome 

The yard sign installation was well-received with high visibility and engagement from the university community. The location of the signs encouraged those who might not otherwise engage to stop, look, and come into the museum for further information.

Advice Post Project

Explore further opportunities for outdoor and accessible art installations on university campuses. The yard sign installation allowed the Mulvane Art Museum to showcase works in an innovative way while creating connections to conversations underway in its galleries. The museumutilized multiple strategies to reach audiences and found that social media was the most effective. It also proved vital to utilize the social networks of the Mulvane Student Advisory Board to reach as many students as possible.