How to Choose the Perfect Display Board for Your Art Exhibition
Explore materials like foam board, acrylic, and MDF for showcasing your artwork. Learn about exhibition panels, shell scheme graphics, and effective floor plans.

Board for Your Art Exhibition
Selecting the right display board for your artwork is akin to choosing the perfect frame; it enhances the piece without overshadowing it. With a plethora of options available, making an informed decision is crucial. Let's delve into the materials commonly used for exhibition displays, understand the various levels of exhibitions, and explore the intricacies of exhibition floor plans—all while keeping things light and engaging.
Materials Commonly Used for Exhibition Displays
When it comes to showcasing artwork, the material of your display board plays a pivotal role in aesthetics, durability, and functionality. Here's a breakdown of popular materials:
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Foam Board (Foamcore): Lightweight and cost-effective, foam boards consist of a foam center sandwiched between paper surfaces. Ideal for temporary displays, they're easy to cut and mount but can be susceptible to damage in high-traffic areas.
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Acrylic: This transparent, thermoplastic material offers a sleek, modern look. Highly durable, acrylic is often used for signage or as accent structures in displays. It's available in clear, colored, gloss, matte, frosted, or mirror finishes.
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Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF): A sturdy and smooth option, MDF is excellent for painted finishes. However, it's heavier than other materials and should be sealed properly to prevent moisture absorption.
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Aluminium Composite Panels: Combining a polyethylene core with aluminium sheets, these panels are lightweight yet rigid, offering a contemporary finish suitable for both indoor and outdoor displays.
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Fabric: Stretchable and versatile, fabrics can be mounted on frames to create seamless backdrops. They're excellent for adding texture and depth to your exhibition space.
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Corflute: A lightweight, cost-effective, and versatile material, Corflute can be folded or bent into various shapes, making it ideal for unique displays. It's also suitable for outdoor use.
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Wood: Offers a natural and warm appearance. Plywood may be treated in a variety of ways and is frequently utilized for building unique booths.
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Vinyl and PVC Boards: Cost-effective and easy to install, these materials are less durable over repeated use and can wear out quickly.
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Plastic: Offers a cost-effective alternative to acrylic and glass. They are lightweight, easy to mold, and can be used for both standard and interactive displays.
Comparison of Display Board Materials
Material |
Weight |
Durability |
Cost |
Ideal Use |
Foam Board |
Light |
Low |
Low |
Temporary Indoor |
Acrylic |
Moderate |
High |
High |
Permanent Displays |
MDF |
Heavy |
High |
Moderate |
Painted Finishes |
Aluminium Composite |
Light |
High |
Moderate |
Modern Exhibits |
Fabric |
Very Light |
Variable |
Variable |
Backdrops |
Corflute |
Light |
Moderate |
Low |
Outdoor Events |
Steel |
Heavy |
Very High |
High |
Large Structures |
Wood |
Heavy |
High |
Moderate |
Custom Booths |
Vinyl and PVC Boards |
Light |
Low |
Low |
Short-term Displays |
Plastic |
Light |
Moderate |
Low |
Interactive Displays |
Disclaimer: Costs and durability are relative and can vary based on specific product quality.
The Five Levels of Exhibition
Understanding the hierarchy of exhibitions can help you tailor your display strategy effectively. Here's a light-hearted breakdown:
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Local Art Fairs: Think of these as the 'farmers' markets' of the art world. Casual, community-focused, and a great place to get feedback (and maybe some homemade jam).
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Regional Exhibitions: A step up, these events draw attendees from broader areas. It's like moving from a village fete to a county fair more eyes, more opportunities.
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National Shows: Welcome to the big leagues! National exhibitions attract artists and audiences from across the country. Time to polish those shoes and your artist statement.
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International Exhibitions: Bonjour! Hola! These events are the Olympics of the art world, showcasing diverse talents globally. Remember, jet lag is temporary; art is forever.
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Solo Exhibitions: The pièce de résistance a show dedicated entirely to your work. It's like hosting a party where everyone came just to see you (and your art, of course).
Decoding Exhibition Floor Plans
An exhibition floor plan is more than just a map; it's a strategic tool that influences visitor flow, engagement, and overall experience. Here's what to consider:
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Booth Layout: The arrangement of booths affects visibility and accessibility. Opt for layouts that encourage exploration without causing traffic jams—nobody enjoys the exhibition equivalent of the M25 at rush hour.
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Aisle Width: Ensure aisles are wide enough for comfortable navigation. Think of it as giving your visitors the luxury of a spacious pavement, not a narrow alleyway.
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Common Areas: Incorporate lounges, info desks, and refreshment zones. These are the pit stops where visitors can rest, refuel, and reflect on the art (and perhaps their life choices).
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Signage: Clear signage is crucial. Directional signs, booth numbers, and information panels should be as unmissable as a seagull at the seaside.
Enhancing Your Exhibition Stand with Shell Scheme Graphics and Panels
When participating in exhibitions, creating a captivating and professional display is paramount. Two essential components in achieving this are shell scheme graphics and exhibition panels.
Shell Scheme Graphics
A shell scheme is a modular system provided by exhibition organisers, typically comprising aluminium frames and infill panels, offering exhibitors a blank canvas to personalise their space. To transform this basic structure into an eye-catching exhibit, custom-printed shell scheme graphics are utilised. These graphics can be crafted from various materials, including PVC, Foamex, or fabric, and are designed to fit seamlessly within the shell scheme framework. They serve to showcase branding, products, or services effectively, ensuring your stand stands out amidst the competition.
Exhibition Panels
Exhibition panels are versatile display elements used to present artwork, information, or promotional content within your stand. They can be freestanding or integrated into the shell scheme and are available in materials such as Foamex, acrylic, or fabric. These panels not only enhance the visual appeal of your exhibit but also provide structural functionality, aiding in the organisation and flow of your display.
Practical Tips for an Engaging Exhibition Stand
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Consistent Branding: Ensure that your shell scheme graphics and exhibition panels reflect your brand’s identity through cohesive colours, logos, and messaging.
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High-Quality Materials: Opt for durable materials like Foamex for your panels to withstand the rigours of multiple exhibitions.
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Professional Design: Invest in professional graphic design services to create visually appealing and impactful graphics that resonate with your target audience.
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Interactive Elements: Incorporate interactive features such as touchscreens or product samples on your exhibition panels to engage visitors actively.
Conclusion
Selecting the appropriate materials and designs for your exhibition displays is crucial in making a lasting impression. By effectively utilising shell scheme graphics and exhibition panels, you can create a professional and inviting space that attracts and engages your audience. At Foamex Printing Company, we specialise in providing high-quality printing solutions tailored to your exhibition needs, ensuring your stand not only captures attention but also conveys your brand message effectively.
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