Re-tracing the past: mixing realities in museum settings

Interactive exhibits are now commonplace in museum settings, providing ‘edutainment’ for visitors. However, many technologies co-exist uneasily with more traditional methods of display. In this paper we describe a design strategy for mixing realities in museum spaces. An approach is adopted for designing interactives which complement rather than replace conventional methods. Our approach is explored through an exhibition which provides visitors with the opportunity to hear and leave opinions on unclassified historical artefacts. An analysis of visitor interaction reveals that avoiding simulation of established methods can allow visitors to weave novel and traditional practices. These results indicate designs for mixing realities in broader settings.