Museum gets Tappenden look

Tappenden has been appointed to design graphics for a travelling sports and games exhibition organised by the British Empire & Commonwealth Museum, as part of its move to broaden its appeal to a wider audience.

The Bristol-based group, which was the only contender for the role, will produce directional, instructional and factual graphics for the five zones of the On Your Marks! exhibition, which charts the relationship between sports and games and the British Empire.

Tappenden will also create marketing materials and guides for the exhibition.

‘Our aim is also to create an exhibition that has a resonance for the kind of audience that might not normally visit museums,’ says a British Empire & Commonwealth Museum spokesman.

Core to the brief is an ability to appeal to all age groups ranging from very young children through to adults.

‘The challenge is not to make things too bright and stereotypically childish,’ explains Tappenden owner Ben Tappenden.

‘Designs will be clean, clear and simple. The visuals need to deliver on three to four different levels, including the toddler with their helper, the child with an early grasp of reading, right through to another intellectual level for the 40-plus visitor.’

On Your Marks! commences its nationwide tour at the British Empire & Commonwealth Museum on 11 April and runs until 3 November.