Augmented gallery in the public sphere

Abstract

Physical presence and spatial configuration of art galleries has always been an important part of experiencing artworks. As a result of the recent Covid-19 pandemic, many arts gallery are forced to operate virtually through websites, and some even chose to permanently close their physical gallery space. Although web-operation can allow for more publicity, it compromises the viewing experience of the artwork itself, as we are limited to a two-dimensional screen. The Augmented Gallery proposes and investigates in an alternative strategy of having a pop-up galley space, it allows the artist to exhibit their work as a hybrid form. The Augmented Gallery is a hybrid exhibition space that combines the virtual art forms with the three-dimensional physical environment, specifically through using augmented reality (AR) technology on mobile devices. This thesis investigates the design parameter, and the user experiences of the hybrid gallery spaces. It questions on how artists and architect could work collaboratively in the design and creation of the spatial environment. What are the new functionalities of the Augmented Gallery? And how do we create a satisfying and entertaining user-experience in this gallery space? The author collaborated with three New Zealand based artists to develop and construct the Augmented Gallery as 1:1 applied experimentation. Through 3D scanning and digital manipulation, the artists’ works were transformed into virtual elements that augments with the physical gallery space. Using portable augmented reality devices, the visitor can simultaneously engage with the physical and the digital art forms. Iterative experiments were conducted during the design process to optimise this user-experience, and to create a cohesive gallery space. The investigations conducted in this research combines both architectural and artistic thinking. It critically evaluates both the opportunities as well as limitations of the augmented gallery space. The interdisciplinary collaboration between art and architecture has help spark new ideas for both the artists and architectural designers. Virtual art as part of the augmented gallery itself. This hybrid form of gallery enhances the connection between digital art and the physical gallery space. It challenges us to rethink about the architectural design and the new functionalities of future gallery spaces.