Artifact Cases
Portfolio :
Detroit Institute of Arts
Client:
Detroit Institute of Art
"Reinstallation of Art"
Proto, as the prime fabricator of the artifact cases and
interactives, fabricated more than 500 unique conservation
cases for the renovation and expansion project of this
150,000 square foot exhibit space, the largest renovation
of an art museum to date. Dimmable fluorescent, halogen
and fiber optics were used in the wall and free-standing
glass cases. Microclimate cases were fabricated with desiccant
chambers to keep the relative humidity at the proper levels.
The Proto cases have a universal design developed by the
designers, Staples & Charles, but each gallery has
its own distinctive elements.
Four and five-sided artifact
cases were fabricated ranging from twelve inches by twelve
inches up to a forty linear foot case, with six large glass
hinged panels that provides a display area for garments
and textiles that are rotated every three to four months.
Delicate artifacts are pin mounted to the fabric wrapped
ethafoam decks. Another set of unique cases were two part
clear acrylic cases that created an appearance of floating
in front of a muralized wall. In addition to the casework,
Proto fabricated and installed interpretive structures
which aid in placement of these impressive objects within
their original social, historical, and spiritual contexts
and also support the interpretive graphics. Innovative
labeling solutions include a three-sided rotating indexing
label stand with stories of the curators and collections.
Interactives engage the visitors to have a better understanding
and appreciation of art.
