It's a good question, a quandary particularly for those who write about their exhibitions.  In order of most to least preferable,  I use "exhibition," "exhibit," and "show" somewhat interchangeably.  I don't know what the rule is, I think it's supposed to be "exhibition" for the thematic display of a bunch of stuff -- but in reality I think the distinction has been mostly discarded.  I find it convenient when writing a project description or grant request or press release in which the exhibition's text is self-referential, to have a few names to call it instead of having to use/repeat one name too many times in a few paragraphs.  I prefer "exhibition" and use it in headings and any formal text -- it sounds like a proper name, and "exhibit" sounds like a nickname.  Like Stephen and Steve.  I use "show" sparingly, more likely in casual correspondence than in formal text.  "Display," for certain kinds of projects, is sometimes used as a way of avoiding saying "show" too often.  I also use "project," sometimes even call the process an "enterprise."   Haven't used "showing" or "showcase," maybe now and then "presentation."

Here's another one -- is it co-curator or cocurator.  And can anyone find a dictionary with a definition for it?

/stephen

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From: Museum discussion list [[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Jessica [[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Wednesday, May 11, 2011 7:32 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Lexicon question

Which word do you, as a museum professional, prefer? Exhibit, or exhibition? Does the terminology depend on the type of museum/cultural space? For example, I have had art history teachers tell me that the word is *never exhibit, while I have heard people from History museums and the Library and Special Collections world call just about anything an exhibit ...

Additionally, there are many digital platforms, designed to facilitate visually-pleasing and information-rich collections of images, that call such things exhibits (I'm thinking in particular of OMEKA).

My inner voice leans toward the word exhibition ... which feels like a word meaning means a collection of exhibits. But what do I know?

Anyone care to shed light on this predicament? Any particular preferences? Does the "correct" word vary according to surrounding space and/or friends?

JFT

--
But when the scant grass lies covered deep
     By the snow that lies like a pall,
Then the plaintive bawl of a hungry cow
     Is the loneliest sound of all!
--Vern Mortensen

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