Capstone: Competitive Research
So, if you have been keeping up with the previous blog posts, you know that the topic of my interactive design capstone project is an exhibit that focuses on the beauty lie within fungi and the scientific processes that they go through. Since the direction I am taking this exhibit is a departure from how mushrooms are typically depicted, there is not much competition that directly relates to my project. That being said, many scientific exhibits can be looked at both as competition and as inspiration.
Competition:
- Virtual Realms: Videogames Transformed (Artscience Museum Singapore) https://www.marinabaysands.com/museum/exhibitions/virtual-realms.html
This exhibit is an example of the technology that I would hope to incorporate with my own exhibit, but taken to the highest degree. The use of bright colors and particle effects is fantastic inspiration for my own abstract installations. Not only that, but the essence of the exhibit is educational, however the way these people are learning about the beauty of this technology is through experiencing it instead of reading or watching a video on it. This hands-on, playful environment that appeals to all ages is something I would love to draw inspiration from.
- Experience Energy (St. Louis Science Center) https://www.slsc.org/exhibits-attractions/experience-energy/
The St. Louis Science Center did a wonderful job with this exhibit. The physical interactions that are involved are perfect for younger audiences in particular. Similarly to the Artscience Museum that I mentioned previously, this exhibit provides wonderful insight on what an effective physical interaction within an exhibit looks like. The art style used in the various infographics and kiosks are comprised of flat, vectorized images that are easily interpreted. While I am looking for an experience more akin to what the Artscience Museum achieved, the informational aspects of this exhibit will surely come in handy when designing various infographics that will be included within my project.
- Sanctuary (Artscience Museum Singapore) https://www.marinabaysands.com/museum/exhibitions/future-world.html
Once again, the Artscience Museum has shown impressive skill in producing digital interactive exhibits. The biggest thing that I admire from this exhibit is the immersiveness of it. The all encompassing beauty of the experience surely appeals to all ages. The end goal of my own exhibit is to create a beautiful and immersive landscape full of glowing particles with shifting colors that can mesmerize any viewer.
Helpful Nuggets
- Well thought out physical interactions within an exhibit is the cornerstone behind a memorable experience.
- The more immersive the experience, the more enjoyable it will be.
- The more simplified the image, the faster a viewer can understand the content.
- Color choice heavenly influences the overall vibe within a space.
- With an interactive exhibit, mindful use of when and when not to use color helps to keep the environment from being overwhelming or distracting.
- Having items that break up the flow of the exhibit help the visitor to engage with the content.
