‘What We Are’ is a temporary exhibition design for the National Museum of the History of Immigration, Paris, looking back over 18 years of acquisitions – highlighting major works, and playing on the echoes between each of the three collections (Testimonies and Society, History, Contemporary Art.)
In this immersive design, ZMMA created a spatially and materially articulated route through the themes exploiting, but modifying, the spatial experience of the galleries, softening and transforming it from its existing architecture, and making each section a distinct space.
There is variety from one section to the next, with changes in atmosphere, colour, light levels and display approach balancing drama with thoughtful calmness, and audio-visual projections throughout the visitor’s journey to bring active testimony and presentation into the displays. Fascinating vistas through the gallery spaces give visitors intuitive and natural orientation and direction through the narrative journey.