Cristiana BARANDONI
(Indiana University, Blommington, USA)
Keywords: 3D models, photogrammetry, virtual experiences
Abstract:
Mann-In-Colours is a three year scientific project carried out by the National Archaeological Museum of Naples in collaboration with the National Taiwan Normal University di Taipei. The project examines chromatic traces, sometimes imperceptible to the human eye but still existing on sculptures and will aim at a visual recovery that will revolutionize the aesthetic perception to which these works have accustomed people for Centuries. From the scientific point of view the project includes conducting chemical and physical surveys on selected sculptures belonging to the Farnese Collection (all the investigated object will also be transformed into 3D models using photogrammetry); the analyses will allow to recompose pertinent chromatic sets. All collected data will be systematized in a database shaped for this purpose, usable by scholars; a specific selection of data will instead be offered to general public fruition. This is first database on ancient polychromy of an Italian national museum.
Beside the database this project aims to build a physical and virtual community that can experiment new forms of communication visiting this Museum, all based on scientific approach. This branch of the project is intended to stimulate inclusion, empathy and engagement while improving knowledge of specific archaeological artefacts, thanks to the use of digital media, never employed to enhance this field of study before. Once a year, all the data collected on the database will be directed toward the realization of a virtual exhibition.
Beyond its scientific value, the project aims at stimulating visitor’s emotional involvement: to do so an Expert Room will allow public to closely observe activities of the scholars engaged in the research. Lots of contents will be available also via web thanks videocasts and podcasts uploaded on the Museum website.
Relevance for the conference: Introduction to the potential of digital to enhance visualization of archaeological context and collections
Relevance for the session: It is stricly related to visual experiences
Innovation: employment of new technologies never used before in this field