Snapchat and Louvre Collaborate on Augmented Reality Experience
Snap, the maker of Snapchat, has joined forces with the Louvre museum in Paris to create a five-part augmented reality (AR) experience called “Egypt Augmented.” This immersive experience consists of four location-specific AR encounters within the museum’s Department of Egyptian Antiquities and one in the exterior courtyard. Additionally, Snapchat users worldwide can access a free Face Lens feature inspired by the exhibition.
Bringing Ancient Exhibits to Life
By scanning a QR code with their smartphones, museum visitors can witness exhibits coming to life in AR. For instance, the “Dendera Zodiac,” a ceiling relief featuring a Ptolemaic sky map from 50BC, is showcased in 3D with explanations of its symbols. The “Chamber of Ancestors,” a carved tomb interior from 1450 BC, is recreated with its original pigments. The pink granite bas-reliefs of the shrine known as “Naos of Amasis” are transformed back to their original state, revealing a statue of the god Osiris inside.
A Digital Obelisk and Historical Significance
In the museum’s Cour Carrée, an AR representation of an obelisk originally destined for that location appears. This digital obelisk was transported from Luxor, Egypt to Paris in 1836 but was eventually erected in Place de la Concorde after much debate. The “Egypt Augmented” experience celebrates 200 years since Jean-François Champollion deciphered Egyptian hieroglyphs using the Rosetta Stone.
Embracing Technology and Educating Visitors
Vincent Rondot, head of the Louvre’s Antiquities Department, believes it is crucial for museums to reflect the current times. He praised Snap’s AR as a means to enhance their capacity to explain exhibits and engage visitors of all ages. Hélène Guichard, the Louvre’s Chief Curator, emphasized the curiosity of archaeologists in adopting technological advancements to better serve their mission. The “Egypt Augmented” experience was created by Snap’s Paris AR Studio, which aims to educate and inspire through non-commercial partnerships with cultural institutions.
AR Beyond Entertainment
Donatien Bozon, director of Snap’s Paris AR Studio, hopes to change the perception of AR by demonstrating its potential in cultural and artistic contexts. He believes that AR can be monumental, tell stories, and create magical experiences. In the past, the studio has collaborated with institutions like the Pompidou Center and artists like Daft Punk to showcase the diverse applications of AR.
Hot Take: Transforming Museum Experiences with AR
The collaboration between Snapchat and the Louvre exemplifies how augmented reality can revolutionize museum experiences. By blending technology with historical artifacts, visitors are transported into interactive and educational encounters that bring ancient civilizations to life. This partnership not only appeals to younger demographics but also attracts older generations who may be new to augmented reality. With continued advancements in AR technology, museums have an exciting opportunity to enhance their storytelling capabilities and engage audiences in innovative ways.
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