Matt -

Two exhibits come to mind immediately.  One is at the San Jose Museum of Art
where they provide drawing pads, drawing utensils, and stools for visitors to
use within the galleries.  The supplies are stationed at any out-of-the-way,
yet easily accessible point within the galleries.  I assume these materials are
mainly for adult use.  I have also seen the museum use an easel along with a
staging area for portraits.  Costumes were provided for dressing up and there
was a sitting area with arm chair and props.  One visitor could pose while
another drew their portrait.

The other exhibit that comes to mind is at the Bay Area Discovery Museum.  This
exhibit is designed for young people, and I found it to be very effective and
engaging in design.  There were about three or four drafting-type tables place
against a wall.  On the wall and under the table was a roll of sketching paper
that was pulled to the top of the table through a slot.  The paper was somehow
anchored on the table (this I can't remember).  At the front of the table (or
side?), there was a recessed box of sketching utensils.  Once you are finished
with your drawing, you can pull the paper forward and tear off your drawing to
take home.  This design is more stationary than the one mentioned above, but it
provides a comfortable place to sketch (I believe that stools were also
provided in this situation) and it seemed very durable and low maintenence.

Good luck with your project.

Deborah Bain


Matt Kirchman wrote:

> Can anyone out there speak of a successful drawing or writing station in
> an exhibit? ie: a desk surface and a pad of paper where someone can pick
> up a drawing or writing implement and then take home an original work of
> art?
>