task
develop a new permanent exhibit for the museum
idea
portray the academic’s quest for knowledge
realization
an innovative way to communicate knowledge
The museum of the University of Utrecht contains academic collections that go back to the 17th century. The collections are derived from all previously existing and current departments of the University. The task: create an exhibition concept in a 130 square metre space that will gather these collections together and that will interest the museum’s target groups: prospective students and tourists interested in culture.
All academic traditions have developed themselves according to the empirical cycle. This has become the basis for the study of law through theology to medicine and the natural sciences. If we can allow the visitor to experience the academic’s empiricism, it will allow them to see the world through the academic’s eyes. This perspective will also provide a unified theme for the different collections.
The exhibit consists of five elements that together express the academic’s discovery process: the Question, the Idea, the Test, Understanding and Dissemination. In each element the visitor can share the experience of the academic, and discover that knowledge is all about inquiry. Design and production: Joost Boudens.