Introduction
Your IB Visual Arts exhibition isn’t only judged on the artworks themselves — the way you present them also matters. Exhibition texts and labels are small details that can have a big impact on professionalism and coherence. Done well, they guide examiners through your exhibition. Done poorly, they create confusion and weaken your overall presentation.
This guide will explain how to write clear, professional exhibition texts and labels for IB Visual Arts.
Why Exhibition Texts and Labels Matter
- Clarity: Helps viewers understand each artwork.
- Professionalism: Makes your exhibition feel polished and intentional.
- Coherence: Links artworks to your theme.
- Examiner-friendly: Supports assessment by making your rationale easier to follow.
What to Include in Exhibition Labels
Each label should include:
- Title of the artwork
- Medium (e.g., acrylic on canvas, mixed media installation)
- Dimensions (height × width × depth, in cm)
- Date of creation (optional but useful)
Example:
“Fragments of Memory, Mixed Media on Wood, 60 × 80 cm, 2023.”
Writing Effective Exhibition Texts
Keep It Simple
Exhibition texts should be short and clear. Avoid long paragraphs or overly academic language.
Connect to Theme
Each text should reinforce your overall concept.
- Example: “This work explores memory and loss through the layering of found objects.”
Be Consistent
Use the same style, font, and formatting across all labels. Consistency shows professionalism.
Reflect Your Voice
Texts should sound like you — personal yet professional.
Tips for Label Presentation
- Print labels on clean, uniform paper or card.
- Use a simple, readable font.
- Place labels neatly at the same height for each work.
- Ensure they’re large enough to read but not distracting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Leaving out labels entirely.
- Writing overly complex texts that confuse viewers.
- Inconsistent formatting (different fonts, sizes, or styles).
- Placing labels too far from the artwork.
- Using labels to explain everything instead of letting the work speak.
FAQs on Exhibition Labels
Q1: Do I need labels for every single artwork?
Yes, each exhibited piece must have a label with basic details.
Q2: Should labels explain meaning?
Briefly, yes — but save detailed analysis for the curatorial rationale.
Q3: Can I handwrite labels?
Not recommended — typed labels look more professional.
Q4: Do examiners grade the labels themselves?
Not directly, but they affect presentation and coherence, which influence marks.
Q5: Should my labels match the language of my rationale?
Yes, consistency between labels and rationale strengthens professionalism.
Conclusion
Exhibition texts and labels may seem like small details, but they play a key role in how examiners experience your IB Visual Arts exhibition. By keeping them clear, consistent, and connected to your theme, you’ll elevate your exhibition’s professionalism and make your curatorial rationale easier to follow. Strong labels ensure your artworks are presented in the best possible light.
