National Capital Exhibition interpretive content

BACKGROUND This unique educational tourism destination interprets the development of Canberra as among the few designed capitals in the world. It was won by competitive tender to the National Capital Authority. The project builds on the work of den Oudsten, Kossmann and de Jong (2010, 2012) who argue that designer involvement from a project's inception enhances design outcomes. CONTRIBUTION Design discipline: complements and implements Roberts' theoretical and enacts contemporary practices in project structure and the interpretation designer's role; treats text as a design element, developed with user experience principles, leading to text formats that challenge traditional museum hierarchies and practices. Visited by thousands of primary school students for civics and citizenship education, the exhibition shapes students' values and understanding of the capital and nation. It also presents an inclusive history recognising women, indigenous culture and migrants and setting the development of the capital in a global context. SIGNIFICANCE Roberts provided essential expertise in interpretation design for Studio Mether. It is the first and only institution on the educational tourism schools circuit in the capital to include an acknowledgement of country at the entry point, as a foundation for the whole visitor experience. This is a major achievement. Wide reach and impact, attracting over 150,000 local (20%), interstate (20%) and international (60%) visitors per year. 2018 visitation increased by 4%; 97% of visitors reported overall experience of exhibition as 'good' or 'excellent'. Press includes local and national newspaper and radio media. Hatchling Studio website: http://www.hatchlingstudio.com.au/projects/national-capital-exhibition/ NCA: https://www.nca.gov.au/attractions-and-memorials/national-capital-exhibition