Simplicity and eye appeal by Bonnie Wilson and Barb Klages Rural Organizations Specialists Preparing an eye-catching, effective exhibit doesn't have to be a headache ifa few ESEE (easy!) pointers are kept in mind. 1) Eye Appeal - the overall exhibit should give a pleasing effect. 2) Simplicity â€" the less complicated the visual, the more likely the display will be read. 3) Educational Value « after all, that was the initial reason for your display 4) Enthusiasm - make the exhibit fun, not a chore! Now, your exhibit needs only to be put together with a few basic building blocks. Ideas Chances are you have a title or a basic theme that you need only build on. Agood theme is important, for a viewer should be able to understand the idea presented bya display in a few 12 Kw" “' This photograph depicts a good exhibit. Lettering is and lettering. Colors are used to enhance readabiiity seconds. Beware ofplacing the items you are exhibiting without presenting a message. Likewise, too many ideas presented creates confusion. ‘ Brainstorming, getting suggestions from many people, is a good way to in- itiate ideas. The final choice can be left up to a smaller group. Store windows, professional displays, etc. can give new ideas. Structures Whatever it is you are displaying, you want to show the objects off to the best advantage. This means using a background that enhances, not detracts. Often, the backdrop is the same one used year after year. The triptyeh, which has the centre piece and two smaller wings, definitely does have its place, but need not bethe only choice. The advantage of this method is it is free-standing and allows ample space for display, Easels can easily be made by folding heavy cardboard or paper to form a right angle and then gluing it to the back of a poster. Trim at the bottom so the sign slants backwards. Island arrangements that form The X, T, H, W, triangle, circle, hexagnn or square, all give unique backgmuwd with a variety of space. Once your backdrop is decided, m. items on display, as well as the sig . must clearly, but brieflyy [en pl message. Illustrations and key wo- . combine to make more effect visuals than just pictures or no alone. Lettering Probably the most difficult t blem the display-maker faces islet ing. Find simple and economical u of presenting headlines and tex. , they will be legible and attractive, ' i are in effect designing a poster to c. i the eye of the audience walking 1: Stencils are the most common tering used. For design purposes simplicity stick to one style ofstei Remember with stencils to fill in gaps so the letters are complete. .9.†clear and distinct and a definite contrast between baCngOU†, The destgn is eyeâ€"catching and yet not overly confining-