Exhibition Display

Exhibition designers design displays and stands for events such as large public exhibitions like the Ideal Home Show, conferences and exhibitions for trade and industry, and temporary displays for businesses, museums, libraries and galleries.

In smaller companies, they oversee the construction of the components (usually in a workshop), and assembly and installation at the exhibition venue.

The work could include discussing requirements with clients and presenting your ideas as sketches, scale plans, computer-generated visuals and models.

It could also include: producing final specifications after discussion with clients, handling orders for supplies, and liaising with technical specialists such as lighting staff.

Newly-qualified designers earn around £15,000 a year. Experienced designers can earn between £20,000 and £40,000.

Freelance designers are likely to be paid a fee for each exhibition.

You may be able to enter exhibition design at junior assistant level. It will be an advantage if you have interest and ability in areas such as computer aided design (CAD) and photography.

For both courses and jobs you would need to show evidence of your design ability, so you should put together a portfolio of your art and design work before applying either for work or training.

Many employers will expect you to have a formal qualification. The British Display Society (BDS) offers vocational qualifications including the Advanced Diploma in Exhibition Design and a range of design certificates - see the BDS website for details.

At higher education level you can complete degrees, HNDs and foundation degrees in design-related subjects.

Degrees in exhibition design are available at a limited number of universities. Other relevant subjects include spatial design, interior design, three dimensional (3D) design and graphic design.

To search for colleges and universities offering art and design foundation courses, foundation degrees, HNDs and degrees use the course search on this site. Entry requirements for courses may vary, so you should check with colleges and universities for their specific requirements.

If you do not have formal qualifications you may be considered if you can show exceptional talent through your portfolio and experience.