Advances in 3D scanning technology are being driven by potential applications in the museums and heritage sector. The key is not to fall into the trap of using technology for technology sake, but to enhance learning and understanding of material heritage.
3.2 Virtual exhibitions
Introduction
Dr Margaret Serpico
Curator of virtual exhibitions and resources, UCL Petrie Museum
I have been a part of the Petrie research team working to develop 3D laser scanning technology and practice in museums for over 5 years. I hold a PhD in Egyptian Archaeology and have spent many years researching the Petrie collection at UCL and Petrie material in other museum across the UK. As archaeological research relies on the ability to examine the fine details of an artefact, I have used my knowledge of the needs of archaeologists and academics in the field to identify refinements to 3D scanning technology that have led to more accurate texture, hue and colour quality in 3D digital replicas.
As a curator, I am excited about the opportunities 3D present for developing exhibitions. I work closely with our software developer to understand how new digital technologies can be combined with our 3D resources to create new levels of engagement with the collection presented in exhibitions. The key is to understand how technology can enhance the stories we seek to tell with objects; provide new avenues for learning about; and provide platforms for engagement and interaction. I curated the exhibition '3D Encounters: Where Science Meets Heritage' with these ideas in mind.
Multimedia highlight
Introductory screen to '3D Encounters: Where Science meets Heritage' exhibition.
3D digital models of objects at the UCL Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology. Film and App by Giancarlo Amati.
Case studies
UCL Qatar Exhibition: 3D Encounters: Where Science meets Heritage
Exhibition at UCL-Q, Doha, Qatar, November 2012 - ongoing.
Featuring our exciting 3D interactives, Making Many, this multi-media exhibition opened at UCL's campus in Qatar in November 2012. The exhibition focusses on the contribution of our 3D imaging to the three main areas of study for UCL-Q: museum studies, conservation and archaeology. For more information to see the press release of Petrie museum delegation visit of our 3DPetrie team to UCL Qatar last year in preparation of the exhibition and local reviews of the exhibition.
More information:
Model Translations - UCL Octagon
UCL Octagon Gallery, London, UK, 27 November 2012 - 30 April 2013
This was the first exhibition in the newly-opened UCL Octagon gallery. In keeping with the remit to highlight UCL's current research and showcase its collections, the exhibition includes objects from the Petrie Museum and an interactive display of a 3D model of a funerary figure.
The first ever exhibition in the Octagon Gallery is Model Translations. This exhibition showcases objects - some never displayed before - from the art, anthropology, archaeology, engineering, pathology and zoology collections. These objects reveal creative encounters and explorations between scholars and the natural and made environment, but at times materialise world views that are problematic and difficult to reconcile today.
Five of UCL's Mellon Fellows - Antony Hudek, Sarah Byrne, Federica Mazzara, Richard Mole and Claire Thomson - have chosen a selection of objects that speak to, and translate, different aspects of their own research. This exhibition is supported by the Andrew W Mellon Foundation of New York.
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Digital Frontiers - UCL Octagon
UCL Octagon Gallery, London, UK, June 2013 - November 2013
This is the second exhibition in the newly-opened UCL Octagon gallery. In keeping with the remit to highlight UCL's current research and showcase its collections, the exhibition includes an original shabti, two replicas and a 3D interactive: Making Many from the Petrie Museum.
Digital Frontiers: and the themes explored in the exhibition - smart, connected and participatory - will aim to explore how emerging technologies are changing the way we access and experience culture and asks questions about the nature of art and technology.
The Geology Collections will be represented by NASA images from the Regional Planetary Image Facility.
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Crossing over: British Library
The British Library, London, UK, 12 October 2010 – 16 July 2011
This interactive exhibition at the British Library gave visitors an opportunity to try out innovative digital resources and research tools. Our virtual exhibition Crossing Over was one of the featured displays
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