The Americana Circus Museum

Voiceover

Presenter(s)

Ashley Decker

Abstract or Description

The Americana Circus Museum is a multi-use museum and event space dedicated to revealing untold stories of traveling circus culture. The site is in Fort Worth, Texas, bordering two other art galleries. The museum consists of both permanent and flexible galleries, a performance hall, classroom spaces, a rentable event terrace, and outdoor activities. The museum layout mirrors a traditional three-ring circus pattern, where each main ring consists of a different activity. To represent a classic circus tent, the museum features a PTFE tensile roof. Atrium spaces in the center of each ring provide a view of the tent and allow for atmospheric noise to flood the galleries. Outdoor activity is a crucial part of the circus, so the museum provides outdoor space for kiosk venders and food trucks. The museum inspires informal performances by providing an outdoor stage. The goal of the museum is not to create another circus, but instead to bring to light stories from the people involved. The first gallery consists of familiar topics such as popular acts, costumes, and props. The second gallery features historical information about banned acts, company history, and stories that ultimately led to the downfall of circus culture. To reflect this, the darker gallery allows less natural light into the space, while the familiar gallery consists of a large curtain window. After visiting the second gallery, visitors return through the first gallery with a new perspective about the circus. Additionally, the museum protects the historical Heritage Tree, giving it an informal ring of its own.

Mentor

Kapila Silva