ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the four potential problem stages in doing such exhibits—involving staff, sponsors and funders, outside stakeholders, and finally visitors—and then describe how each of these played out in the single example of Endings. When administrators sound the death knell on a topic or an approach to a topic, it's often funders that they have in mind. The irony is that the sponsor or funder of an exhibition is sometimes the very element that creates controversy. Without provocation and publicity, none of the issues mentioned are likely to amount to anything, but with provocation and publicity, the mildest exhibits can find themselves in difficult straits. Perhaps the institution has overlooked potential stakeholders. Homework to uncover possible problems can clarify the institution's reasons for attacking the issue in the first place, so staff can be prepared to address the press with unity, logic, and a collective cool head.
