“Rachel Ruysch: Nature Transformed,” The Toledo Museum of Art

Selldorf Architects’ exhibition design presents Ruysch’s work in a series of interwoven spaces corresponding to five curatorial groupings: An Auspicious Beginning, Rachel and Anna, Art, Nature and Science, Fame and Fortune, and Heroine of Art. The exhibition layout relies on the use of the museum’s freestanding partition system with walls strategically located to create spaces that relate to the existing ceiling and its vaulted center. Throughout the show, Selldorf’s design creates strategic sightlines that visually connect works from different periods fostering narrative continuity and engaging visitors in a cohesive experience through the artist’s prolific life. Visitors move through a progression of intimate spaces to experience the artist’s intricate compositions and explore the intersections of art and science. Gallery seating is located at key moments to provide opportunities for pause and reflection.

Selldorf-designed table vitrines were custom made to present the great variety of study objects and specimens. The vitrines allow for the presentation of artworks alongside objects to exemplify the artist’s process. Greatly inspired by Ruysch’s work, Selldorf and the museum’s graphics and curatorial teams collaborated on the choice of wall color and graphics throughout the show. Working with their Interpretation and Learning team, the design blends interactive guides and activities throughout the exhibition. In an adjacent space, a Making Station for hands-on artmaking activities, invites guests of all ages to share their inspiration and contribute to a communal still-life display.

Rachel Ruysch: Nature Transformed is an international traveling exhibition that started out at the Alte Pinakothek Munich and, after Toledo Museum of Art in Ohio, it will make its way later this year to the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston.