Studiolo



Since 1993 the "Studiolo" conception originated by the Education Service of the Kunst- und Ausstellungshalle has been progressively implemented and developed. The name comes from the Italian designation for a work and study room which evolved from a type of city palace room, lavishly furnished by 16th century humanist scholars, into a place containing works of art, study-objects and books, a place of active intellectual inquiry and contemplative reflection. It was in keeping with this idea and spirit that the first Studiolo was designed and built as an integral part of the exhibition entitled "Wunderkammer of the Occident - Museum and Collection in the Mirror of Time."

Defining elements of the Studiolo idea are direct accessibility to visitors during exhibition tours, and design and features that are commensurate in quality to the objects in the exhibition, including original works of art, educational objects, and a variety of information resources. Among these may be, for example, a seating arrangement with an open-access library, CD ROM or Internet or "music for seeing" stations and facilities, and a "cicerone" whom visitors can approach for competent answers to their questions. The innovative Studiolo concept of a visitor information centre specially adapted to the type and character of each exhibition has proved exemplary in method; it possesses great public appeal and has inspired much positive response. Methodologically imaginative and academically grounded variations on Goethe's aphorism about the "delight and instructiveness" of all views repeatedly make the Studiolo come alive as a place of encounter with art and culture.

The Studiolo also features presentations such as that of traditional thangka-painting by monks in the exhibition entitled "Wisdom and Compassion. The Sacred Art of Tibet." In addition it functions partly as a "laboratory" for practical demonstrations, as in the "Gene Worlds" or "Arctic-Antarctic" exhibitions. The "computer quiz" educational game that was available in the Studiolo area of the exhibition "Alexander von Humboldt. Networks of Knowledge" successfully tested the use of new media in the communication of exhibition subject-matter. The Studiolo is also used in "audiovision presentations" as an introduction to exhibitions and can serve as a venue for presenting "living images" or for the installation of works of art that can in all senses be "explored" and "grasped".


Studiolo: "Jürgen Klauke"

For informations on the conception and practical use of the "Studiolo" please contact: email: Dr. Hanns-Ulrich Mette, Head Education Service / Exhibition-Visitor Intermedia and Communication