The challenge
Choose six artworks — any period, any medium — that explore a single theme. Then write:
- the exhibition's title;
- a 150-word curatorial statement explaining the idea behind the show;
- a 40–60 word wall label for each work, saying why it's included and how it speaks to the others.
Your theme should be an idea, not just a subject. "Surveillance" or "the passing of time" gives you something to argue; "paintings of the sea" doesn't.
How to get started
- Pick a theme with tension in it — something the works can disagree about, not just illustrate.
- Choose six works that approach the theme from different angles, including at least one that complicates it.
- Decide the order visitors meet them in: you're building an argument step by step.
- Write labels that do more than describe — each should justify why this work, and why here.
Stuck? Open a hint
Try the challenge first — then reveal these one at a time.
Hint 1
A strong theme creates conversation between works. Pick some that agree and some that challenge each other.
Hint 2
Each wall label should answer three things: why this work, why in this show, and why next to that one?
Hint 3
Include one deliberately surprising or provocative choice — and use its label to defend it.
Take it further
Design the room layout and the route visitors take. Justify where the provocative work sits.
Look at how a major gallery frames a themed show — browse current exhibitions at Tate and read their curatorial statements.
Produce & share
Make something: Produce your exhibition: a title, a 150-word curatorial statement, and a 40–60 word label for each of the six works (include images or links to them).
When it's ready, email your work to Mr King. The best pieces may be featured in the student showcase.
What you'll practise
Critical and contextual analysis, thematic thinking, visual literacy, and persuasive writing.