360-degree Media in Virtual Art Galleries
When it comes to art or historical exhibitions, nothing is as immersive as a 360-degree projection. This kind of presentation uses a state of art video mapping technology to produce digital image projections on a 360-degree scale. This technology delivers a unique experience by creating an illusion as a result of blending the physical with virtual reality. Everyone wants to feel like they are living in this simulated reality hence it has become popular.
The continuous spread of the Covid-19 pandemic has caused people to feel stressed and anxious. Having a 360-degree virtual tour can reduce psychological stress through enjoyment and involvement. Since 2001, virtual reality technology has been used as a tool to relieve tension. This can particularly be useful in this pandemic period.
How to Build Effective Virtual 360-Degree in Art Galleries.
The potential of a virtual 360-degree tour in galleries and museums was recognized in early 1990. Experiments conducted recently have been used to show that 3D 360- degree virtual reality improves the tourism experience and can also be persuasive to art buyers.
A complete 360-degree virtual art tour incorporates telepresence and mediated presence which creates a feeling of “being there”. To achieve this, virtual tour software is used to record the art in a panoramic view. The 3D models are then uploaded to a website or app. They can be accessed by visiting the site or app via mobile devices or computer.
Related Trends in Different Industries
Numerous industries have experienced a huge leap by employing the 360-degree tour.
In healthcare, for example, professionals can gain insight into how a human body works by using virtual human anatomy models and virtual reality environments. This allows them to get a real feel of what it would be like working in such real conditions, hence improving their experience and skills. They are then able to provide uncompromised health care.
360-Degree filmmaking has also given a new approach to the element of storytelling in movies. TV shows such as Breaking Bad that have taken advantage of this technology provide an immersing movie experience. It allows you to not only watch the movie but also step in and be part of it.
In any industry that you could think of, 360-degree bridges any communication gap, improving the product’s efficiency.
Benefits of Virtual 360-degree Technology in Art Galleries.
There is an endless list of advantages that are brought about by 3D VR technology. To list but a few are:
- Attracting more visitors and art buyers.
- Art exhibitions can be visited in the comfort of your home without having to physically be at the gallery.
- There is more freedom to immerse yourself in the art and access information at your own pace. This comes in handy to mature art lovers who want to explore every single detail of a piece of art.
- Keeping a social distance, especially during the Covid-19 period.
The purpose of this project is not to trade places or compete with the traditional physical visits to art galleries but rather to enrich the experience by personalizing the art in a way that cannot be perceived in the real world.
References:
- Cole M.. (2020). Experience Virtual 360 Tours of Famous Museums Worldwide [Online] September 2020. Available at: https://www.thescientificpub.com/experience-virtual-360-tours-of-famous-museums-worldwide/ [Accessed: 19 July 2021]
- Melnick K.. (2021). 360-Degree Art Gallery Immerses You In The Genius Of Vincent Van Gogh [Online] June 2021. Available at: https://vrscout.com/news/360-degree-van-gogh-art-gallery/ [Accessed: 19 July 2021]
- AV Alliance (2021). Immersive Projection Techniques: 360° Projection Mapping and Real-Time Tracking [Online] June 2021. Available at: https://avalliance.com/immersive-projection-techniques-360-projection-mapping-and-real-time-tracking/ [Accessed: 19 July 2021]
- Elsevier Public Health Emergency Collection (2021). The impact of a 360° virtual tour on the reduction of psychological stress caused by COVID-19 [Online] January 2021. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7775825/ [Accessed: 19 July 2021]
- The Red Marker (2021). Benefits of an Art Gallery, Museum, & Exhibition Virtual Tour [Online] June 2021. Available at: https://www.theredmarker.com/blog/benefits-art-gallery-museum-exhibition-virtual-tour [Accessed: 19 July 2021]
