Cindy wrote:
I am new to the exhibits field and want to add proficieny with drafting
software to my skill set. As my training is not in architecture, but in
Museum Studies and Visual Communication, I have been working primarily
on a
Mac using the range of Adobe graphics packages.  Is anyone familiar with
a
stong drafting program for the Mac?  What are Exhibit Designers using?
Any
info will be greatly appreciated.
Cindy Schartman
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I use computer programs for exhibit development and concept
presentations [the fun part]. The builders do the construction drawings,
showing how my concepts will become reality. I also make individual case
and panel layouts with a drawing program.
For 3D visualization, Walkthru Pro from Virtus [virtus.com] quickly
creates spaces and cases, with transparent glass. With some effort, you
can even build "artifacts" such as vehicles and furniture. They're
blocky, since the program is aimed at architectural work. For adding
reality, Virtus puts "textures" on surfaces. [picts or BMPs].
I "arrange" art and artifacts in the 3D space by applying textures of
photos, prep'ed in PhotoShop. It will record a (rather jumpy) QuickTime
movie to wow 'em at project start up meetings. You can also copy views
over to PhotoShop for details and shadows for presentations.
For simple concept plans and elevations, I use FreeHand. [I used to use
Canvas, which has a scalable ruler function and a lot of other CAD
stuff, but I think it got in its own way. crash] FH is a graphics tool,
but it has the capabilities and ease of use to make plans look nice.
For arranging individual items in cases, FH's [and Illustrator and
Canvas] ability to quickly move and size scanned images makes it easy to
do detailed cropping and spacing. It's better than arranging empty
rectangles, hoping you rember what the images and artifacts really are.
There are new programs coming out that combine CAD and 3D presentations,
I can hardly wait to try them when budget allows. DesignWorkshop from
artifice.com has a free "lite" version you can download; Canvas has new
program aimed at architects [deneba.com]; and Virtus is working on
[has?] a combination package, for the PC only.

Bill Sander
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