Introduction
Museums play an important role in society by sharing meaningful content and sparking discussions on current events and issues. The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is renowned for its vast collection of artifacts and scientific specimens. Our project specifically targets the polar world exhibition, which has remained unchanged for an extended period. The museum's own exhibit description acknowledges that the information presented is not in line with the latest scientific advancements, thus contradicting the museum's core values. To keep up with the information and improve visitor engagement, we are embracing interactive experiences and technology to the Polar World Exhibition.
The Experience
The redesigned experience offers a series of interactive experiences organized into four main parts. Visitors are empowered to explore these parts in any order, fostering self-discovery and curiosity. Our focus is on promoting social interaction through collaborative and shared experiences, without relying on artificial methods or rewards.
01 Fate of the Arctic
In the redesigned experience, the "Fate of the Arctic" activity offers visitors an immersive encounter with polar worlds. Through interactive projections on the ground and walls, visitors can witness the effects of climate change on the Arctic. By stepping onto the shrinking glacier projection and collaborating with others in designated circles, visitors actively engage in demonstrating the importance of collective action in environmental conservation. This activity concludes with the projections showcasing a restored and healthy state of the Arctic and other affected regions.
02 Arctic Waters
In response to our primary research, we identified a disruption in the exhibit caused by the adjacent Hall of American Indians. To enhance the visitor experience, we propose implementing Arctic Waters, an activity that incorporates dynamic floor projections and allows visitors to glide along ice floes. This solution not only establishes clear boundaries for the polar exhibit but also creates an immersive experience that connects with other designed activities.
03 Life beneath the ice
Life Beneath the Ice is an engaging and educational activity within the exhibit that allows visitors to explore the diverse species inhabiting the Arctic. Through a physical ice burgh interface, visitors can interact with the Arctic cod and trigger a narrated presentation about life beneath the ice. This activity aims to provide an enjoyable and informative experience, fostering understanding and appreciation for the unique Arctic ecosystem and its inhabitants.
04 Iglu: A Disappearing Art
Iglu: A Disappearing Art is an interactive experience within the exhibit that allows visitors to step inside an igloo and engage in an igloo-building activity. Using projection mapping and motion sensing technology, the activity aims to preserve the culturally significant practice of igloo building and foster a symbiotic relationship between humans and nature. Upon completion of the igloo, the diorama inside illuminates, inviting visitors to explore the depiction of Inuit lifestyle.
Reflection
The project provided a valuable opportunity to delve into interaction design in a novel manner, shifting from virtual or augmented reality to the physical realm. Installing projectors and adapting software in a physical space presented a unique design experience for our team. As an interaction designer, I appreciate the absence of graphical user interfaces, as it allows for exploring the multitude of layers and dimensions that designers can offer to engage audiences. This project's focus on enhancing the visitor experience at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History has been a rewarding endeavor, aiming to create a more immersive and inspiring encounter for museum visitors.
