Underpainting: Crimes of the Art World
An exhibition exploring the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum theft that took place in the early hours of March 18, 1990. In 81 minutes, thirteen famous artworks were stolen and never seen again. More than 500 million dollars worth of art was taken and there is a 10 million dollar reward for information on the missing art. This an project is a visual proposal of an exhibition that could be held at museums. The main goal is to entertain and educate visitors on the infamous art heist that still has not been solved after 32 years. Viewers can view the missing art, follow the ongoing case, and see if they can find any clues themselves.
Institution
Temple University, Tyler School or Art and Architecture
Art Direction
Abby Guido
Deliverables
Exhibition Design
Branding
Advertising
Layout
Coding
Logo Design
The logo reflects the many layers there are to a painting. An underpainting is the first layer on a canvas as paint is then added on top. The name also alludes to the many layers there are to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Heist. The case remains unsolved and the motive for the criminals is still unknown.
The Exhibition’s Style Tile
Floor Plan
The Wall Designs
A variety of layouts were created for each room to communicate the information in a visually interesting way and draw visitors to the exhibit. The designs incorporate three-dimensional elements to connect to the logo design as well. Other elements include screen designs, projections, and visuals revealing the stolen art.
The Introduction
Stolen Art and Missing Guards
This section shows some of the art that was stolen and an important piece that was left behind. It also looks at what happened inside the museum during the robbery according to the security system and the night guards. Most of the art was stolen from the Dutch Room as security recorded during the night.
Isabella and Her Famous Museum
Here, Isabella and her Venetian style museum are introduced. This wall and screen goes into detail on her past and how she created her own museum.
The Series of Events
The timeline of events from when the guards started for the night until the investigation began
The Case Begins
This room explores the case and the many unsolved layers to it. It looks at the suspects in the case and other odd details investigators found.
“The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Heist, the largest private property theft in world history, may remain unsolved as its last surviving suspect has died.”
Who Were the Suspects?
Bobby Donati
Leonard Dimuzio
George Reissfelder
Discover the Lost Art
Collateral and Advertising
