The
Challenge (Project Purpose)
The
Interpretive Media Concept Plan for Crater of Diamonds State Park was
completed in April 2001. The conceptual plan:
1. Provides rationale and parameters for the development for new interpretive facilities at Crater of Diamonds State Park. It examines agency mission and goals, public needs, and site resources. Based on these elements, recommendations were made on building design and site development that complements media and programs for the center.
2. Presents Arkansas State Park planners, Crater of Diamonds staff, architects, and exhibit designers with an opportunity to review and comment on the center development process before any dirt is turned or nails are hammered. In addition to being a planning tool, therefore, it is a communication tool.
3. Guides future staff members by communicating the vision of the current planning team and provides resources to help staff achieve the mission and goals of the center.
The Interpretive Media Concept Plan is composed of the following sections:
- Section One: The Conceptual Planning Process
- Section Two: Background (Agency, Park Resources, Results of the Visitor Study, and Marketing Recommendations)
- Section Three: Overview of the Proposed Visitor Experience
- Section Four: Themes, Messages, and Principles for Media Development
- Section Five: Media Concepts and Descriptions
- Section Six: Wayfinding Recommendations
- Section Seven: Exhibit Components - Priorities, Square Footage, and Estimated Costs
Media Concepts and Descriptions (Section Five) formed the bulk of the plan. They included detailed descriptions of new exhibits in several buildings, a multi-media theater presentation, interpretive signs in the diamond search area, self-guided activities (i.e., a scavenger hunt, children's Discovery Packs), and recommendations for interpreter-led programs and demonstrations. A purpose and objectives accompanied the description of each interpretive media component.
Conceptual drawings were created by Gary Peck of Split Rock Studios (St. Paul, MN) to illustrate several proposed exhibits.
Proposed "Lobby Centerpiece Exhibit" for the Visitor Information Center at Crater of Diamonds State Park, Arkansas.
Click on the drawing to see the page that describes the exhibit (from the Interpretive Media Concept Plan).