Cory Keester-O’Mills
Exhibition Developer, Anthropologist, Nerd
Member Since
September 2024
Hailing from the wilds of South Florida, where concrete jungle abuts gator-filled swamps, I was the child drawn into the swamp.
I’m an exhibition developer before a designer. I’d say my skillset lies in telling stories and planning out supporting interactions along the way. I’m passionate about building multi-sensory narratives, that allow guests to see themselves as participants.
My academic background was in archaeology and anthropology. My master’s research looked at the use of scent in exhibitions as a tool for building empathy. I’ve spent more than a decade working in science museums, aquariums and nature parks.
Recently decided to try something new, and am now working freelance. I am excited to take on new challenges, build amazing experiences and tell new stories.
Ask me about
Multisensory design and smelly exhibits… or alligators.
My super power is
Super organized, sometimes too much so. My favorite part of any job is figuring out elegant solutions to complex problems.
Best piece of advice I've ever heard
When a visitor walks through a exhibition, they experience it as a hiker in the wood. Some see the trees, some see the forest, some stop to look under the rocks, and others are on a mission to reach the summit. The best exhibitions are ecosystems. Interrelated parts that build upon the next, sometimes in obvious ways, sometimes surprising.
Practice Area
Exhibition
Focus Area
Exhibition, Interactive, Interpretive, Signage, Sustainability
Industry
Cultural, Education, Museums, Recreation, Visitor Centers