The Ruskin AR Experience (Lancaster University Alumni and Development)

Kemp, Sandra (2024) The Ruskin AR Experience (Lancaster University Alumni and Development). UNSPECIFIED.

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Abstract

Building on the success of the Ruskin Roadshow, this project focuses on exploring the legacy of John Ruskin by utilising Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to provide a unique platform to display and explore his works.. The event, for alumni and stakeholders, showcased bespoke VR experiences alongside AR experiences. The Ruskin exhibited a range of AR experiences using iPads with specially designed postcards displaying related works from The Collection. Each postcard displayed one work from The Collection with a QR code linking it to a related photographic image from today. Presenting works from The Collection through the immersive experiences of AR and VR highlights the ongoing relevance of Ruskin’s ideas – from education to environmentalism – to the challenges of today’s modern world. Additionally, in collaboration with LU’s Innovation Team, The Ruskin developed two short films for the event: this included a film about the development of the VR experience itself, with interviews from the student developers involved; and a film showcasing The Ruskin’s Digital Collection Platform, including the use of Turning Page Books software for the presentation of Ruskin’s manuscripts, and the use of IIIF images, which allow for the comparison of images and objects across other digital collections, and facilitates the joining-up of digital collections of Ruskin material worldwide.