Asia Trail IInterpretive Program

Our ProcessEstablish big messages with team of scientists, animal managers and educatorsDevelop exhibit conceptsResearch cultural references to create working design paletteDefine spaces along the trail for hands-on exhibits, graphics, volunteer interactions Prototype exhibits to refine messages, text, visual elementsTravel to Asia to finalize exhibit concepts and gather raw materials

More ProcessSelect and manage contractors (exhibit fabricators, sculptors, illustrators, multimedia developers, etc.) Develop drawing package documenting all exhibit elementsReview by internal team, external stakeholdersFabricate and install exhibits

Key MessagesAsia Trail animals are uniquely adapted to the habitats where they live.

National Zoo science plays a key role in the global understanding of Asia Trail species.

People are integral to the conservation of Asias wildlife and wild places.

AdaptationsAnimal and plant identification signsBuilt to SurviveLog BooksSloth Bear diet graphicsBronze sculpturesBalance branch

Animal and Plant ID Signs

Built to Survive

Log Books

ScienceLook StationsCamera TrapPanda House science exhibitsWild Signs

Look Stations

Camera Trap

Panda House

Wild Signs

ConservationVillage FlatsDilemma StationsConservation GeographyCuriosity StationsNotes from the FieldConservation Props

Village Flats

Dilemma Stations

Conservation Geography

Curiosity Stations

Planning PrinciplesAuthentic voices and stories from Thailand, India and ChinaExhibit colors, design elements drawn from range countries culturesFlexible exhibit design can be updated, changedStrong use of the Web as an interpretive toolEmphasis on hands-on visitor experiencesExhibit messages closely coordinated with interpreter program

Colors and MotifsOrientation Sign TabsPrimary Exhibit ColorsSecondary Exhibit Colors

Contract MilestonesJuly 29, 2005 Kick-off meeting with fabricatorMid-April, 2006 Fabrication completeMid-June, 2006 Installation complete

Note: Two months needed between site turnover and opening date.