Interested in organizing an exhibit at United Nations Headquarters in New York? Please read all the information below prior to submitting a proposal.
- What kinds of exhibits are displayed at UN Headquarters in New York?
- Where are the exhibits displayed?
- How long are the exhibits on display?
- Who can organize an exhibit?
- What content should the exhibit include?
- Who pays for the exhibit?
- What else do I need to know before submitting an exhibit proposal?
- How do I submit an exhibit proposal?
- What happens after I submit a complete proposal?
What kinds of exhibits are displayed at UN Headquarters in New York?
Exhibitions open to the public showcase important topics that the UN works on, such as human rights, sustainable development, the environment, women and girls, peace and security, and more.They feature photographic and multimedia displays that creatively illustrate these topics through images, facts and data. All exhibits must be in line with the Exhibits Committee Guidelines.
NOTE: The information on this page relates to exhibits in the Visitors Lobby, which is open to the general public. There are other non-public exhibit areas at UN Headquarters open only to Staff, Delegates, and those at the UN on official business, which are managed by the Department of Operational Support. For more information about those spaces, please contact SpecialEvents@un.org.
Where are the exhibits displayed?
Exhibits can be displayed in person at UN Headquarters in New York, or virtually on the UN exhibits website.
At Headquarters, there are three galleries available in the Visitors Lobby, ranging in size from 102 linear feet (31 m) to 1400 square feet (130 m2). A 360-degree view of the gallery space can be seen in this video.
Additional information can be found in the Exhibits Committee Guidelines.
How long are the exhibits on display?
Exhibits in the UN Visitors Lobby are on display for about 6 to 8 weeks. Virtual exhibits are on view for up to one year.
Who can organize an exhibit?
Anyone can submit an exhibit proposal. However, proposals submitted by non-UN entities must be accompanied by a letter from a UN entity (department/office; special political or peacekeeping mission; regional commission or resident coordinator; fund, programme or specialized agency; other entity of the UN system), or a Permanent or Observer Mission formally endorsing the exhibit and its content. All exhibits, regardless of the supporting entity, must be reviewed by the relevant UN office specialized in the topic.
What content should the exhibit include?
All exhibits should:
- Illustrate a theme(s) on the UN agenda
- Feature work from more than one artist/photographer
- Include content about more than one country
- Be non-promotional and non-commercial in nature
- Include substantive information and data on the topic
- Utilize inclusive language and provide global perspectives
- Call on visitors to take action
Who pays for the exhibit?
There is no rental fee to use the gallery space. Exhibitors are responsible for all related costs, including production, installation, promotion, and an opening event/reception (optional). Costs vary depending on the scope of the exhibit and therefore can only be estimated after a complete proposal has been submitted and approved.
What else do I need to know before submitting an exhibit proposal?
All completed proposals for exhibits at UN Headquarters in New York:
- must be in line with the Exhibits Committee Guidelines
- require approval by the United Nations Exhibits Committee
- must be submitted at least six months before the proposed display dates
- must be submitted in English
How do I submit an exhibit proposal?
1- Please submit an Initial Inquiry Form as early as possible for an assessment as to whether your proposed exhibit is in line with the guidelines.
2- Following a positive response to the initial inquiry, submit an Application Form along with the complete proposal as per the instructions in the Submission Requirements. A portfolio template can be found here: PowerPoint Template.
What happens after I submit a proposal?
1- You will receive a written response in a timely manner.
2- Further technical and logistical details will be provided at a later stage as required.