Villa of Mysteries Experience
Designed a Microsoft HoloLens AR experience that explores a unique exhibit of wall paintings copied from the Villa of the Mysteries in Pompeii. Later adapted to a web experience.
Summary
UX/UI Designer
Role
October 2018 – May 2020
Timeline
The Project
In Fall 2018, I joined a project with the Virtual World Heritage Lab(VWHL) to create an augmented reality (AR) experience for the Kelsey Museum in Ann Arbor Michigan. The museum asked for a HoloLens AR experience based around an exhibit of copies of Ancient Pompeian wall paintings from the Villa of the Mysteries.
The Process
We designed a narrative based AR experiences that teaches users about three topics in the exhibit. We conducted user testing with the HoloLens and continued to ideate the project with the feedback we received. We, however, were unable to fully develop the HoloLens experience due to complications with the device.
Adapted Design
In Spring 2020, I was asked by the VWHL to revisit this project and adapt the Hololens design to a web-based educational website. I designed and developed a web application that teaches users about the Ancient Pompeian wall paintings and the watercolor copies in the Kelsey Museum.
Research
I edited the content of the original Hololens experience so it would translate to the web based experience. I conducted further research into the history of the paintings and found new photographs and content to include in this experience. I also created graphics with assets from the Kelsey Museum and interactive image maps that adds a layer of engagement for the user.
Takeaways
In this project overall, I learned how to work with a team to design and user test an augmented reality HoloLens experience. I also learned UX design fundamentals and usability testing practices. Finally, I learned how to adapt an extensive AR design to an online experience.