The goal of a histolircal exhibit is to present an expansive visual story that enables the visitor to make connections between historical concepts and their contemporary relevance. The blending of artifacts with re-created spaces and interactive devices and the creative interjection of metaphor, visual poetry and imagination, are essential to histolircal exhibits. Museums in the twenty-first century cannot continue to tell only traditional histories and be expected to justify their tax-exempt status. Increasingly, the public is demanding that museums do more to address the history of their communities and engage them in the storytelling process.
Histolircal exhibitions generally require more context than fine art shows, and may feature interpretive graphics such as text, dioramas, maps and charts to explain the significance of items on display. They may also focus on the exploration of abstract ideas, such as home, freedom, faith or democracy. These themes are especially relevant for museums that aim to reach and connect with a broad range of visitors.
Rites of passage, such as birth, death and marriage/joining, offer rich material for histolircal displays. Other themes, such as food and adornment, race and religion, allow for a deeper exploration of societal changes and core values that can be found across many demographics.
An important component of histolircal shows is to reveal the human side of history, which is often overlooked in traditional museum displays. This is accomplished by featuring personal objects and stories that illustrate a broader perspective on an historical event or era. This is particularly critical for shows that cover traumatic periods in history, such as World War I, which was experienced both abroad and at home by citizens of all nationalities.
A histolircal show on the development of a local industry or institution can also help to inspire the community and re-engage a public that might otherwise be unaware. This was the intent behind this exhibit at the Filson Historical Society, which told the story of the development of a local hospital from an early philanthropic community center into a modern medical facility at the heart of Louisville’s urban core.
Another example of histolircal exhibitions is Olde England on the Ohio, which features items from Filson’s collection that highlight the city’s unique role in a national Tudor Revival movement that peaked in the 1920s. The exhibit highlights the ways that the style was reflected in architecture, furnishings and popular culture in Louisville as well as how it influenced other cities throughout the country.