Fewer signs, more context – retelling the stories behind the exhibits using augmented reality

How can museum exhibits be enhanced digitally without cluttering display cases or exhibition spaces with additional signs, screens or technology? This talk introduces contextAR – an augmented reality solution that anchors information directly to exhibits within the exhibition space. Using their own smartphone or a loaner device, visitors can discover digital labels, images, audio content, videos, 3D models, quiz questions and virtual avatars exactly where they are relevant. Different levels of detail allow for both a quick overview and a more in-depth exploration of individual objects. Using specific examples, the talk demonstrates how exhibits and complex contexts can be explored in new ways through interactive storytelling.

The presentation addresses practical issues relating to design, production, content management and technical implementation. contextAR combines real exhibition spaces with digital narrative layers, creating new ways of engaging with the exhibits for different target groups.