The exhibition as a form of memory

The article discusses the issue of definition of the exhibition as a form of memory. Based on the analysis of a wide range of anniversary exhibitions in Russia the article deals with the contents of this thesis. Exhibitions record and reflect the historical consciousness of society at present and, simultaneously, form and preserve the historical memory of the society. The main emphasis is made on the museum exhibition, which is viewed through the prism of the concepts of individual and collective memory. Analysis of exhibitions of the late XIX-early XX centuries and exhibitions beginning of the XXI century shows that the exhibition can not only save memory but also to resurrect it. The exhibition reflects what is relevant to the historical and social memory. Memory is the driving force of the exhibition, and the purpose for which the exhibition is directed.