I recently graduated with an MFA in Museum Exhibition Planning and Design from the University of the Arts. Prior to receiving my Master’s degree, I obtained degrees in both Architectural Technology and Interior Design. My educational and professional experience have aided in my capabilities as a forward-thinking experience designer as well as a visual storyteller. My career experiences with museums and design has thus far provided me with appreciation and insight into providing the best experience for a client as well as the knowledge and skills to complete projects. As a visual storyteller, I aim to align myself with a visionary institution that strives for excellence and pushes beyond expectations with every project they encounter.
I am always seeking the next source of inspiration for my work. I have worked on projects dealing with residential, commercial and multi-use design, with a focus on public need, specifically in relation to museums. With each project, thoughtful effort and detail is taken in all aspects of its design. Examples of my work can be seen on my website, see: www.dskennedy.sqsp.com. I wish to find an institution to match my professional ambitions, creative intuition that will allow me to bring my diverse skills and qualifications into an established and ever evolving design firm.
Recently, I worked in the Exhibits Department at Fireman’s Hall Museum. My main responsibilities included creating exhibition experiences for a diverse audience, designing graphics for exhibitions, as well as interpreting collections within the museum. Previously, I worked at the Rochester Museum and Science Center creating 3D computer models and walk-through animations for their permanent exhibitions. I am proficient in a variety of programs and offer a diverse skills-set.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know my story. I welcome questions and the chance to better discuss my skills. I can be reached via email at kennedy.s.daniel@gmail.com or by telephone at 585-208-3687.
Independence Seaport Museum, Philadelphia, PA, US, Visitor Services Representative | Education Department
Customer service support for museum: admission desk, gift shop, and historic ships.
Assist and run educational activities.
Oversee birthday parties, overnight sleepovers, and other events.
Assist with box office sales and other affairs at Pennslanding Playhouse within the museum.
Fireman's Hall Museum, Philadelphia, PA, US, Visual Assets Coordinator | Exhibits Department
Exhibition development, interpretation, and graphics: 9/11 Memorial, Ghana 1969 Fire Prevention Week, and Vintage Fire Prevention Poster interpretation
Misc graphics: promotional and communications, interior and exterior banners, and website upkeep
Schematic design: lobby revamp and threshold experience
Fireman's Hall Museum, Philadelphia, PA, US, Intern | Exhibits Department
Exhibit interpretation, development, and graphics
Communication and promotional graphics
Rochester Museum & Science Center, Rochester, NY, US, Intern | Exhibits Department
Surveyed permanent exhibitions
Created 3D computer modeling
Produced video walk-through animations
Philadelphia Photo Arts Center, Philadelphia, PA, US, Assistantship with Assistant Director | Curatorial Department
Installation and de-installation of exhibitions
Assistance with curatorial research
Coordination and production of press releases and materials
Documentation of exhibitions
University of the Arts, Philadelphia, PA, US, Masters, MFA | Museum Exhibition Planning and Design
This program was created for individuals who are dedicated to the concept of a museum as a medium to create elegant physical solutions for positive social advocacy and change. With an MFA in Museum Exhibition Planning and Design, I was able to share my natural curiosity about the world around me as I integrated content and program development with experience and spatial design to communicate and facilitate meaningful experiences for visitors.
I researched and developed narratives as I designed the physical environment and visitor experience, drawing from architecture, interior design, industrial design, environmental design and graphic design. I discussed “big ideas” and the theory that underpins them, as well as learned the skills of research, design, documentation and presentation. I saw my concepts in action as I used the latest media and tools to pilot new innovative thinking and test and iterate with visitors to understand their ultimate impacts.
The city of Philadelphia was my creative incubator, with endless opportunities attending art openings and taking field trips to large, formal museums and smaller eclectic ones. I worked in the industry through assistantships and internships, in institutions that provided guidance and mentorship. I, along with fellow students, was invited to take part in charrette workshops to help shape exhibitions with institutions like SEI Investments and the Mayo Clinic.
SUNY Alfred State College of Technology, Alfred, NY, US, AAS | Interior Design
This program is designed to provide graduates with basic knowledge and skills for entry-level positions in the interior design discipline. The program consists of a core graphics sequence with additional courses in appropriate technical areas. Computer applications are integrated throughout the four semesters with a strong component in 2D and 3D computer graphics. The faculty consists of interior designers as well as licensed architects and engineers.
SUNY Alfred State College of Technology, Alfred, NY, US, Bachelors, BS | Architectural Technology
This program is designed to provide graduates with a comprehensive architectural education combining a philosophic perspective of building design with an applied technical knowledge of construction systems and materials, acquired in a technically oriented studio structure. A variety of graphic tools and techniques are explored in the studio sequence, including freehand drawings, physical models, 2D and 3D building information modeling, and animation applications. Students are exposed to - and use throughout the program - a wide range of software programs (such as Adobe Photoshop, AutoCAD, and Revit), graphics communication techniques, and problem-solving skills.
Design Excellence Award: Certificate of Merit in Interior Design, Award
