Our group proposes a platform that allows anyone to digitally upload their own monuments to be experienced through augmented reality, creating a democratic platform that allows all voices to be  heard. The digital monument is inherently impermanent and capable of incorporating real-time updates in response to the present moment.

In Collaboration with Leo Castaneda, Ian Colon, and Emmett Moore

Tools: Functioning prototype built with Unity

The project expands the notion of a monument beyond a single figure or event in the past.  The convention of entrusting an individual author to decide who or what is commemorated is inherently problematic and narrow-minded.  The heroes of all of our cultures and individual histories both past, present, and future have importance and should be honored.  There is much value in listening to each other and we intend to create a space dedicated to making history a conversation rather than a monologue.

The plinth in Collins Park will exhibit a plaque featuring a quick response (QR) code masked as a graphic texture. When the masked QR code is viewed through a mobile device, viewers will discover 3-Dimensional monuments that they can interact with via augmented reality.   On the physical plinth, the quick response code serves as a visual invitation for the viewer to experience one of the 3D models submitted online that will be visible through augmented reality.  A visitor’s phone or tablet becomes a window to view an infinite number of monuments, listening to and learning about myriad unique histories from around the world.