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      Promotions: how to publicise a show

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can use posters and other creative methods to promote an art exhibition.

      Key learning points

      1. There are different ways to promote an art exhibition or show.
      2. Promotional content uses images, words, and designs that catch attention and share key information.
      3. Posters are not the only method to promote an exhibition, but they are one of the most accessible and versatile ways.

      Keywords

      • Poster - a visual display used to catch attention, share information, and promote an event, artwork, or idea

      • Show - a public presentation of artwork (such as an exhibition or performance) where artists display their work for an audience to view, experience, and respond to

      Common misconception

      Promoting a show is just about putting up a poster or posting once online.

      Effective promotion requires planning, multiple methods, and consistent communication.

      Teacher tip

      Encourage pupils to think about the audience first, who they want to reach and how those people usually get information. Show examples of professional promotion, including social media posts, flyers, and exhibition websites, and discuss what makes them effective.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      The only way to promote an exhibition is to make a poster.

      Correct Answer: False, Incorrect

      Q2.
      Which of the following is a way to promote your artwork?

      Correct answer: social media posts, posters, and artist talks
      ignoring your audience
      keeping your work private
      not explaining your ideas

      Q3.
      Which of these is an example of physical promotion?

      posting to social media
      podcasts and interviews
      Correct answer: posters, exhibition panels, catalogues, printed invites
      a guided tour of the exhibition

      Q4.
      Posters for major exhibitions, such as the Paris Salon, can become collectible if they are visually striking or linked to famous artists.

      Correct Answer: True, Correct

      Q5.
      Why is it important to think about your audience before promoting an exhibition?

      Correct answer: so you can design promotion that appeals to the right people
      to make sure no one comes to the exhibition
      Correct answer: because different audiences may prefer different formats
      because the audience decides which materials you’re allowed to use

      Q6.
      Which creative choices can make an exhibition poster more engaging?

      Correct answer: using unusual materials or interactive elements like QR codes
      Correct answer: adding hand-drawn patterns or illustration
      keeping it plain with no information
      Correct answer: playing with typography, scale, or colour

      To help you plan your 11 art and design lesson on: Promotions: how to publicise a show, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...