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WebExpo Conference 2025 Day 2: “Digital Intimacy – Feeling Human in an Artificial World” by Lutz Schmitt

One of the most thought-provoking talks I attended at this year’s WebExpo Conference was by Lutz Schmitt, titled “Digital Intimacy: Feeling Human in an Artificial World.” It made me reflect on how we approach emotional connection in digital design, something that often gets overlooked when we’re focused on functionality or aesthetics.

The Main Message: Making Technology Feel More Human

Lutz Schmitt’s talk focused on an important point: even though digital tools are getting better at copying how people behave, they don’t always create real emotional connections. He warned that we often design for speed, accuracy, and logic, but real human feelings are often slow, messy, and complicated. Just because a chatbot answers quickly doesn’t mean it feels caring. Just because a dating app matches people doesn’t mean it builds real connections. This really made me think. It reminded me that designing how things work isn’t enough. We need to ask: Does this feel human? Schmitt suggested a new way to think about emotional design. Instead of adding emotions as a last step, it should be part of the main design process. He gave examples like adding pauses in conversations, using less perfect language, or choosing a warm tone to make people feel like they are talking to a real person, not a machine. The goal isn’t to copy humans exactly but to understand what makes people feel seen and cared for, and design for that feeling. Emotional design needs attention and care, just like any other part of good design.

What Was Helpful for My Work

This talk was especially meaningful for me as someone working at the intersection of physical and digital experiences. Schmitt’s perspective made me reflect on how emotional connection often gets lost when we focus too much on the technical side of digital design.

In projects where I blend physical materials with digital interactions, whether it’s sensors, projections, or screen-based interfaces, it’s easy to prioritize what the technology can do over what it feels like to use. Schmitt’s talk reminded me that technology should serve the emotional goals of an experience, not just the functional ones.

He challenged me to think more critically about how digital responses, like lighting, sound, or interface feedback, can be designed to feel more human, warm, or even vulnerable. It’s not just about impressing users with innovation, but about creating a moment that feels real and meaningful. That mindset shift will definitely shape how I approach future projects that aim to engage people on both a sensory and emotional level.

Final Thoughts

This talk didn’t introduce any new technologies or visual trends, but it provided something more profound: a reminder that effective digital design is experienced emotionally, not just visually. To create experiences that resonate with people, we must go beyond mere logic and efficiency. We need to design with emotional intention.

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WebExpo Conference 2025 Day 1: “12 core design skills” by Jan Řezáč

One of the most eye-opening talks I attended at this year’s WebExpo Conference was by Jan Řezáč titled “12 core design skills”. It got me thinking about how we work as designers, especially when building new products or improving user experiences.

The Main Message: Don’t Fall Into the “Second Diamond Trap”

In design, we often use the “double diamond” process: first, we explore the problem (diamond one), and then we explore solutions (diamond two). The talk warned us about a common mistake: we focus so much on making and improving solutions that we forget to check back with users. This is called the “Second Diamond Trap.”

It means we spend a lot of time perfecting ideas, but forget who we’re designing for. We assume that once we’ve talked to users during the early research phase, we’re done. But people change. Contexts change. And the best designs come from staying in touch with real user needs the whole way through.

That point really hit me. It made me reflect on how easy it is to get stuck in “build mode” and lose sight of the bigger picture.

A Helpful Framework: 12 Areas of Design Work

One of the best parts of the talk was a 12-part framework they shared. It showed all the skills a great designer needs to grow, not just in craft, but in leadership and thinking. Here are the 12 areas:

  • Design Process
  • Business Thinking
  • Workshop Facilitation
  • Customer Research
  • Sense-making
  • Strategy
  • Stakeholder Management
  • Ideation
  • Rapid Prototyping
  • Testing Business Ideas
  • Design Operations
  • Project Management

What I liked is that each one had clear examples. For example, in Business Thinking, they reminded us that if we want to influence design decisions, we need to speak the language of business, things like goals, value, and impact. I also liked how they showed the difference between junior and senior skills. For example, juniors might run user interviews, but seniors turn those insights into action fast and share them with the whole team.

What Was Helpful for My Work

This talk was especially helpful for me in two areas: sense-making and stakeholder management. In my own projects, I often do research, but I don’t always stop to reflect enough during the project. Sense-making isn’t just something you do at the end, it should guide your work from start to finish.

Also, learning about how seniors manage themselves and others made me think about how I can grow into a leadership role. It’s not just about doing good work, it’s about helping others see the value of design too.

Final Thoughts

This talk didn’t give flashy design trends, it gave real advice that I can use in my everyday work. It helped me see where I’m strong and where I want to grow. If you’re a designer looking to build better products and be more strategic, the House of Řezáč team’s ideas are worth exploring.

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NIME Paper Review – Sensattice: An emerging collaborative and modular sound sculpture

Sensattice is a modular sound sculpture made from organic waste and 3D-printed parts like orange peels, fish scales, and bioplastics shaped into stretchy “skins” and interlocking “bones.” These pieces can be assembled in different ways to form a lattice structure that people can play with by rubbing, tapping, drumming, or even blowing into some flute-like components.

But beyond the materials and shapes, what makes Sensattice truly special is how interactive and collaborative it is. Anyone can participate in building and playing it. There is no right or wrong way to engage with it. It invites people to explore sound not just with their ears, but with their whole body.

What I really appreciate about this instrument is how it reconnects us with our basic senses. It doesn’t rely on technology or screens to interact with it. You just need your hands, your curiosity, and your willingness to play. That simplicity is beautiful to me.

I also love how tangible it is. There’s something grounding about working with physical materials. Feeling textures, hearing natural sounds, even smelling the skins made from food waste. Sensattice reminds me that art and music don’t need to be high-tech to be innovative. They just need to be honest and intentional.

Another thing I admire is how it’s been made. Not only from a mix of materials, but also through the collaboration of many different fields like music, engineering, biology, and design. It’s similar to how different instruments come together to create music. Each discipline contributes its unique voice, and together, they produce something harmonious. The balance between form and function, structure and play, as well as materials and meaning all come together to enhance the goal of producing beautiful sound.

It also makes me think about how rare it is today to encounter something that invites touch and play without asking for instructions first. I think that openness is part of what makes Sensattice so powerful. It welcomes people in, just as they are.

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2.1. Prototyping & Reflection of the Speed-Dating

My previous topic focused on the physical and digital worlds surrounding museums. Currently, my research does not provide any concrete ideas on what this entails. So, for this task, my thought process has led me to consider creating something that doesn’t rely on technology for its primary function. As a result, I created a collection of three prototype pencil holders. I chose to work with cardboard as my primary material because it is lightweight, easy to cut and shape, and allows for quick iteration. This choice allowed me to try out different structures and improve my ideas without the limits of more rigid materials.

Prototype 1: The House
The first prototype takes the form of a small house, featuring a hole in its roof for storing pens, pencils, markers, and other writing instruments. This was the most complex design of the three, and due to its complexity, it took the longest to construct as I had to experiment with the angles of the roof and the positioning of the storage opening to achieve the right balance between aesthetics and usability.

Prototype 2: The Cube
The second prototype is a simple cube with five holes on one side, designed to hold pens and pencils perfectly. Its geometric structure made it the easiest to assemble, as I only needed to ensure that the holes were the right size for standard writing tools.

Prototype 3: The Abstract Shape
The third prototype differs from traditional forms, featuring a curved plank resting on a cylindrical base. Unlike the first two, which have clear, recognizable shapes, this design leans toward abstraction. Although this was the fastest prototype to construct, it required the most conceptual thinking. I spent a lot of time considering its form and how it could function as a pencil holder. The final piece is a sculpture that sparks interest while also being useful.

Observations from the Speed-Dating Session
For the in-class speed-dating session, I decided to bring Prototype 3. Given its abstract form, I was particularly interested in seeing how people would interpret it without any prior explanation. As the session began, people appeared uncertain about its intended function. Instead of immediately revealing its purpose, I encouraged them to make guesses based on its shape and structure.

Many speculated that it might serve as a rest for the chin or arm, while others imagined it as a support for chopsticks or another type of tool. When I revealed that it was meant to be a pencil holder, people had mixed reactions. Some were surprised, while others wondered if it really worked well for that purpose.

The most valuable feedback from this session suggested refining the concept by focusing on holding a single, special object rather than multiple everyday writing tools. One person suggested that the design could be changed from a typical pencil holder to a display case for a special calligraphy pen or another important writing tool. This idea created new options for how the prototype could become a more meaningful object.

Overall Thoughts
The speed-dating experience proved to be a valuable exercise in the iterative design process. Observing how people engaged with my prototype, interpreted its function, and provided feedback allowed me to rethink my approach and the intended use of the design. I realized that the way something looks affects how people understand and use it. It’s important to create ideas that clearly show what they are for or, on the other hand, encourage people to engage with them through uncertainty.

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1.10. Phygital: A New Era of Museum Engagement

Social Context

The pandemic forced museums to pivot quickly to digital platforms to stay connected with audiences as physical visits became limited or impossible. Virtual tours, online exhibitions, and digital programming became essential tools to engage visitors during this time. However, while digital engagement helped sustain interest, it became clear that digital-only experiences could not replicate the richness and depth of physical interactions with artifacts. This is where the concept of “phygital” arises as the key to enhancing museum engagement.

What is Phygital?

The term “phygital” merges the physical and digital realms, transforming how museums engage with visitors. By integrating technology into tangible displays, museums create immersive, engaging experiences for diverse audiences. The “Phygital Museum Scale” offers a framework for blending digital and physical elements effectively [1], while emphasizing storytelling as a “sensitive activation” of cultural heritage [7]. This approach helps museums stay relevant as audience expectations and technology evolve.

Exploring Phygital Innovations

Phygital strategies are reshaping museums worldwide. For example, the Markiezenhof Museum in the Netherlands uses augmented reality to animate historical artifacts, enhancing visitor understanding [5]. The “Phygital Museum Scale” identifies five scenarios ranging from fully physical to fully digital experiences, helping museums tailor their strategies based on audience and goals [1]. Projects like ExhiBIT foster inclusivity through community-driven curation and digital tools [2]. Phygital spaces integrate technology seamlessly, turning visitors’ gestures into part of the storytelling process, which demonstrates the potential of merging physical artifacts with digital technologies [4], [7].

Why Phygital Matters

Phygital strategies cater to various learning styles, broadening accessibility [3]. Digital enhancements such as virtual tours and contextual overlays offer deeper insights beyond what physical artifacts alone can provide [6]. Purpose-driven design ensures that digital tools complement material culture, while sensory and immersive experiences amplify the emotional significance of objects [1], [7]. Analytics from digital tools allow museums to tailor exhibitions, enhancing visitor engagement [4].

A Vision for the Future

Phygital technologies, including virtual reality, interactive holograms, and AI-driven personalization, promise to transform museum experiences [4], [6]. These innovations shift spaces from contemplative to performative, allowing visitors to co-create their experiences through interaction and narrative involvement [7]. The “Phygital Museum Scale” guides museums toward a balanced integration of physical and digital elements, as seen in projects like Ravespace, which bridge the gap between the two realms [4].

Conclusion

Phygital approaches revolutionize museum experiences, offering a bridge between tradition and technology. By combining physical artifacts with digital tools, museums create interactive and memorable experiences that foster deeper connections with cultural heritage [3], [1]. As the boundaries between physical and digital continue to blur, phygital museums will lead to audience engagement and cultural preservation [5].

References

[1] S. Debono, “The Phygital Museum Scale: Measuring and Designing Phygital Museum Experiences,” CHAIN 2022 Proceedings, University of Catania, 2022, pp. 25-34.

[2] “About ExhiBIT,” ExhiBIT Project, [Online]. Available: https://exhibit-project.com/about/

[3] “8 Ways to Be Phygital,” Making the Museum Newsletter, [Online]. Available: https://www.makingthemuseum.com/newsletter/8-ways-to-be-phygital

[4] “Explore the Future of Art: How Phygital Exhibitions Will Transform the Way We Experience Art,” Ravespace Blog, [Online]. Available: https://ravespace.io/blog/explore-the-future-of-art-how-phygital-exhibitions-will-transform-the-way-we-experience-art

[5] “2 Examples of Phygital Museums You Should Check Out,” Invisible Studio, [Online]. Available: https://www.invisiblestudio.net/post/2-examples-of-phygital-museums-you-should-check-out

[6] “What Is Phygital?” Giosg Blog, [Online]. Available: https://www.giosg.com/blog/what-is-phygital

[7] A. Miano, “Phygital Museum Experiences: The Situated and Invisible Dimension of Technology as Sensitive Activation of Cultural Heritage,” Conference Paper, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli,” 2023.

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1.9. Defining “Interaction” in Museums

Interaction in museums is a dynamic concept that reflects the ways in which visitors engage with exhibits, staff, and each other. Historically, museums were viewed as spaces for passive observation, where visitors simply looked at objects or artifacts. Over time, however, there has been a shift towards more engaging and participatory experiences, allowing visitors to interact with exhibits and immerse themselves in the museum environment. This shift has broadened the definition of interaction in museums, highlighting the importance of visitor engagement in learning and enjoyment.

Digital Interaction

The use of technology in museums has significantly enhanced visitor interaction. Digital tools such as interactive touchscreens, augmented reality (AR), and virtual tours allow visitors to engage with exhibits in innovative ways. These technologies create immersive environments that not only provide information but also encourage exploration and curiosity. For example, AR allows visitors to see historical reconstructions or interact with 3D models of artifacts, fostering a deeper understanding of the content [2]. The role of technology has revolutionized how visitors can engage with exhibits, turning a passive experience into a more active, personalized learning journey [1].

Tangible Interaction

While digital interactions are important, non-digital experiences are equally essential in enhancing visitor engagement. Tactile exhibits, live demonstrations, and hands-on workshops allow visitors to engage physically and intellectually with museum content. These types of interactions create a more personal connection with the exhibits, offering opportunities for multisensory learning that digital tools may not always provide. Museums with such interactive elements help visitors build deeper connections to the artifacts, enhancing their emotional and intellectual experience [3].

Social Interaction

In addition to individual engagement, museums also encourage social interaction. Group activities, collaborative workshops, and guided tours provide spaces for visitors to interact with one another. This social dimension fosters learning through shared experiences, where visitors exchange ideas, challenge one another’s viewpoints, and build collective understandings of the museum’s content. Social interaction within a museum can lead to a richer, more nuanced interpretation of the exhibits and deepen the visitor’s connection to the material [5]. Museums are increasingly designed to promote these interactions, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among visitors [4].

Learning Outcomes

One of the primary goals of interactive experiences in museums is to enhance learning outcomes. Research has consistently shown that visitors who engage more actively with exhibits tend to retain information better and develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Whether through the use of technology, tactile experiences, or social interaction, active participation helps to strengthen cognitive and emotional connections with the material. This engagement leads to a more profound learning experience and encourages visitors to critically engage with content rather than merely absorb it passively [2].

Conclusion

Defining interaction in museums extends far beyond the traditional passive viewing of objects. Interaction today encompasses a variety of methods—digital and non-digital—that invite visitors to engage more deeply with the museum experience. As museums continue to evolve, their role as active, participatory spaces will likely expand, offering richer, more meaningful experiences for future generations.

References

[1] G. E. Hein, Learning in the Museum, Routledge, 1998.

[2] J. H. Falk and L. D. Dierking, Learning from Museums: Visitor Experiences and the Making of Meaning, 2nd ed., AltaMira Press, 2013.

[3] E. Hooper-Greenhill, Museums and the Interpretation of Visual Culture, Routledge, 2000.

[4] S. Macdonald, A Companion to Museum Studies, Wiley-Blackwell, 2011.

[5] L. H. Silverman, The Social Work of Museums, Routledge, 2010.

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1.8. Types of Museums and Their Exhibitions

Museums come in a variety of types, each catering to unique audiences and subject matter. These differences are reflected in their exhibitions, which are carefully curated to align with their missions and appeal to their visitors.

An Overview of the Types

Science museums feature interactive exhibits to simplify complex scientific concepts through hands-on experiments and immersive simulations. Notable examples include the Exploratorium in San Francisco and the Deutsches Museum in Munich, which features an extensive range of scientific and technological innovations. These museums exemplify the mission to engage and educate through active participation.

image source: Deutsches Museum – Chemistry in everyday life

Art museums focus on visual and emotional impact, curating collections that foster deep connections through paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. Notable institutions like the Louvre in Paris and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, showcasing contemporary masterpieces, highlight how art museums create profound connections through their curated selections.

image source: Louvre

History museums use artifacts, dioramas, and multimedia to narrate historical events, making the past resonate with visitors. These techniques ensure that history resonates with diverse audiences. The Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., and the British Museum in London, which showcases global historical artifacts, are prominent examples of this approach [1].

image source: British Museum

Natural history museums showcase life-size reconstructions and fossils, immersing visitors in Earth’s evolutionary history. Renowned institutions like the Natural History Museum in Vienna. These types of exhibitions highlight the rich diversity of the natural world and its evolutionary history.

image source: Natural History Museum in Vienna

Children’s museums promote learning through playful, sensory exhibits that stimulate creativity and critical thinking. Examples include the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and KidZania, a global chain offering interactive role-play experiences. These museums create spaces where learning is synonymous with play.

Cultural heritage museums preserve traditions and identities by highlighting artifacts, photographs, and oral histories. For instance, the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. and the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa reflect how museums can serve as guardians of heritage and culture.

Crafting the Content: How Exhibitions Are Designed

Exhibition design is a cornerstone of the museum experience, acting as the primary link between institutions and their audiences. Exhibitions are more than just displays; they are carefully crafted to inspire, inform, and entertain while encouraging engagement, spreading knowledge, and influencing perspectives. To achieve this, museums must thoughtfully adapt their design approaches to meet specific goals, balancing educational value with visitor engagement. Whether focused on objects or overarching concepts, well-designed exhibitions have the power to deepen understanding, foster appreciation, and create meaningful connections with audiences. [3][4] 

People Involved in Exhibition Development

Exhibition development is a collaborative process involving various professionals, tailored to each museum’s focus:

  • Science Museums: Scientists, educators, and designers work together to create hands-on experiments that simplify complex concepts.
  • Art Museums: Curators, designers, and artists collaborate to design immersive exhibits with emotional and intellectual appeal.
  • History Museums: Researchers and curators select artifacts and build cohesive narratives to engage visitors with history.
  • Natural History Museums: Experts create lifelike models and interactive displays based on fieldwork to showcase nature.
  • Children’s Museums: Child development specialists and designers create tactile, playful exhibits for young visitors.
  • Cultural Heritage Museums: Collaborating with communities, they ensure authentic representations of cultural traditions.

Across all types, feedback and revisions are key to balancing educational and visitor engagement goals.

Conclusion
By tailoring their exhibitions to their audiences and content, museums ensure that their spaces are not only informative but also memorable and meaningful. Their variety demonstrates the importance of curatorial intent in shaping visitor experiences.

References:
[1] “Museum Types and Categories,” WhichMuseum, Accessed: Jan. 2025. [Online]. Available: https://whichmuseum.com/our-category-system

[2] “What Are the Different Types of Art Exhibitions?,” Contemporary Art Issue, Accessed: Jan. 2025. [Online]. Available: https://www.contemporaryartissue.com/what-are-the-different-types-of-art-exhibitions/

[3] Kamaruddin, N., “An Empirical Understanding on Types of Museum Exhibition Design,” International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications, Oct. 2019. Available: https://www.ijsrp.org/research-paper-1019/ijsrp-p9567.pdf

[4] Kapukotuwa, A., & Anedo, O. A. A., “Museum Exhibition Techniques,” ResearchGate, July 2020.

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1.7. Engaging the Senses: Multisensory Design in Museums

Revolutionizing Museum Spaces

Museums are evolving from static to vibrant, interactive spaces designed to engage visitors on a deeper level. Among the most transformative innovations is the incorporation of multisensory experiences, which activate sight, touch, sound, smell, and even taste to create unforgettable moments.

The Benefits of Multisensory Engagement

Multisensory engagement enriches learning by mirroring real-life environments, where information is naturally processed through multiple senses. Research highlights that combining modalities, such as pairing visual stimuli with sound, facilitates faster and more effective learning. This approach not only improves memory retention but also makes museums more accessible to diverse audiences, including people with disabilities [1][2].

Multisensory Solutions Through Design and Technology

Museums are redefining visitor engagement by crafting multisensory experiences that combine traditional methods with cutting-edge technology. Curated scents and immersive soundscapes transport visitors to distinct times and places—whether through the aroma of ancient spices or the ambient noise of a bustling historical market. Similarly, edible exhibits and tasting stations tied to cultural or historical themes deepen emotional connections and leave lasting impressions [5].

Technology enhances these sensory elements by introducing new layers of interaction and immersion. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) bring historical events to life, allowing visitors to explore ancient environments or interact with digital reconstructions of artifacts. Haptic feedback devices simulate the sensation of touch, enabling users to “feel” objects that might otherwise be inaccessible due to fragility or preservation concerns. Furthermore, spatial audio systems adapt soundscapes to visitor movements, creating dynamic, personalized auditory experiences [4][5].

By blending sensory-rich design with innovative technologies, museums are crafting deeply immersive journeys that connect audiences to art, history, and culture in ways never before possible. These integrated approaches encourage visitors not just to observe, but to feel and actively engage, forging emotional and intellectual connections that linger long after their visit.

images source: Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet

Deepening Emotional Connections

Beyond accessibility, multisensory strategies can evoke emotions, foster empathy, and deepen cultural understanding. Experiences like tasting culturally significant foods, hearing ambient sounds of historical sites, and smelling curated scents transport visitors to the essence of different eras and places. This approach strengthens their emotional connection to history and art, enriching their overall museum experience [3][4][5].

The Future of Multisensory Museums

By embracing multisensory design, museums can transcend traditional boundaries, making cultural heritage accessible, inclusive, and engaging for all. As the future unfolds, multisensory solutions stand as a beacon for museum innovation, enhancing visitor experiences and reshaping how we interact with cultural heritage [5].

References

[1] L. Shams and A. R. Seitz, “Benefits of Multisensory Learning,” Trends in Cognitive Sciences, vol. 12, no. 11, pp. 411–417, 2008.
[2] T. Harada, Y. Hideyoshi, E. Gressier-Soudan, and C. Jean, “Museum Experience Design Based on Multi-Sensory Transformation Approach,” in International Design Conference, 2018, pp. 2221–2228.
[3] S. Subramanian, “Creating Multi-Sensory Experiences: Integrating Emotions into Design,” Medium, May 16, 2018. [Online]. Available: https://medium.com/@shriyasub101/creating-multi-sensory-experiences-integrating-emotions-into-design-2ba4cf379643.
[4] D. Luo, L. Doucé, and K. Nys, “Multisensory Museum Experience: An Integrative View and Future Research Directions,” Museum Management and Curatorship, vol. 39, no. 1, pp. 1–22, 2024.
[5] “What Is a Multisensory Experience? 5 Powerful Examples,” Peek, Jan. 2025. [Online]. Available: https://www.peekpro.com/blog/multisensory-experience.

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1.6. Breaking Barriers: Accessibility in Museums

Museums worldwide are reimagining how they serve their diverse audiences by prioritizing accessibility. By embracing innovative strategies and tools, these cultural institutions aim to create inclusive experiences for all visitors, regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive abilities. Accessibility efforts range from digital tools to tactile engagement and universal design principles, setting new standards for inclusivity in the cultural sector.

Universal Design and Feedback

Universal Design (UD) principles, which aim to accommodate the broadest range of users, underscore the importance of accessibility from the ground up. Equally important is leveraging visitor feedback to continually improve accessibility measures. As demonstrated by museums adopting systemic approaches to organizational change, accessibility is not just an addition but a core value [7][8].

Tactile Accessibility

Integrating tactile images and braille descriptions caters to visually impaired visitors, enriching their museum experience [2]. 

At The Met, the program “Seeing Through Drawing” invites blind and partially sighted visitors to engage with artworks through touch and guided drawing exercises. This innovative approach fosters a deeper connection to the art, combining sensory exploration with creative expression [9].

Visual Accessibility

Deaf culture inclusion is another critical focus. Leading museums have embraced year-round initiatives like American Sign Language (ASL) tours and partnerships with Deaf communities to enhance accessibility [3]. Sign language tours and captioned videos are examples of how museums create a more inclusive experience for visitors with hearing impairments.

The Rijksmuseum offers a Family Tour in International Sign for families with deaf children or parents, providing an interactive exploration of Dutch art and history. The tour includes hands-on activities like drawing and modeling. [10]

Linguistic Accessibility

Providing multilingual materials and offering live translations or captions can ensure that non-native speakers and those with hearing impairments can fully engage with exhibits [1]. 

Accessibility for Neurodiverse Audiences

Innovative designs addressing neurodiverse audiences exemplify creative solutions. Quiet zones, sensory maps, and clear, readable fonts are small yet impactful changes that foster inclusivity [5][6]. By offering sensory-friendly events and thoughtfully designed exhibits, museums can create more welcoming environments for individuals with neurodiverse needs.

Digital Accessibility

Improving digital accessibility—such as creating user-friendly websites and interactive apps—ensures virtual engagement for remote or disabled visitors [4]. 

Conclusion

This aligns with global efforts to make cultural institutions inclusive, ensuring everyone can enjoy and learn from shared histories and stories. By adopting these strategies, museums not only enhance engagement but also affirm their role as welcoming spaces for all individuals, irrespective of their abilities.

References

[1] American Alliance of Museums, “4 Ideas to Create Linguistic Accessibility at Museums,” Apr. 28, 2023. [Online]. Available: https://www.aam-us.org/2023/04/28/4-ideas-to-create-linguistic-accessibility-at-museums/

[2] MuseumNext, “Tactile Images in Museums: Enhancing Accessibility and Engagement,” [Online]. Available: https://www.museumnext.com/article/tactile-images-in-museums-enhancing-accessibility-and-engagement/

[3] American Alliance of Museums, “Celebrating Deaf Culture: How 5 Leading Museums Approach Accessibility and ASL Year-Round,” May 17, 2024. [Online]. Available: https://www.aam-us.org/2024/05/17/celebrating-deaf-culture-how-5-leading-museums-approach-accessibility-and-asl-year-round/

[4] MuseumNext, “Improving Digital Accessibility for Museum Visitors,” [Online]. Available: https://www.museumnext.com/article/improving-digital-accessibility-for-museum-visitors/

[5] MuseumNext, “How Can Museums Increase Accessibility for Neurodiverse Audiences?,” [Online]. Available: https://www.museumnext.com/article/how-can-museums-increase-accessibility-for-neurodiverse-audiences/

[6] MuseumNext, “How Can Museums Increase Accessibility for Dyslexic Visitors?,” [Online]. Available: https://www.museumnext.com/article/how-can-museums-increase-accessibility-for-dyslexic-visitors/

[7] American Alliance of Museums, “Tips for Creating Accessible Museums: Universal Design and Universal Design for Learning,” Nov. 27, 2023. [Online]. Available: https://www.aam-us.org/2023/11/27/tips-for-creating-accessible-museums-universal-design-and-universal-design-for-learning/

[8] M. C. Ciaccheri, “Museum Accessibility by Design: A Systemic Approach to Organizational Change,” Medium, [Online]. Available: https://medium.com/@mchiara.ciaccheri/museum-accessibility-by-design-a-systemic-approach-to-organizational-change-f47f7b23105b [

9] The Metropolitan Museum of Art, “Accessibility at The Met,” [Online]. Available: https://www.metmuseum.org/learn/accessibility

[10] Rijksmuseum, “Accessibility,” [Online]. Available: https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/en/whats-on?filter=accessibility

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1.5. Building Community Through Museums

How Can We Tie DIY and Interactive Technologies to Community Building?

Museums have long been seen as places of quiet reflection, where visitors admire static exhibits from a distance. However, a new wave of transformation is sweeping through these spaces, shifting the focus from passive observation to active participation. The power of DIY projects, interactive exhibits, and co-created spaces is reshaping how we experience culture, making museums more inclusive, dynamic, and community-driven than ever before.

The Shift from Passive Viewing to Active Participation

Hands-on activities

Modern museums have transformed from passive spaces into collaborative hubs where visitors actively shape their experiences. Through hands-on activities and DIY workshops, visitors become co-creators, contributing their voices to cultural narratives and fostering a deeper sense of belonging and inclusion [1]. These participatory initiatives provide platforms for self-expression and meaningful interaction, enabling diverse groups to share unique perspectives and cultivate shared ownership of museum spaces [3].

For marginalized groups, such efforts offer a powerful means of self-empowerment and storytelling, allowing individuals to showcase their creativity and lived experiences. By breaking down societal barriers, these activities foster inclusivity and encourage dialogue among people from varied backgrounds, enriching the cultural fabric of museums [3], [5].

Digital activities

Museums are increasingly using collaborative interactive activities to foster social connections among visitors. Tools like augmented reality, digital storytelling, and interactive displays encourage shared experiences that strengthen community bonds. For example, the Science Museum’s Disease Controller game in the Medicine and Communities gallery allows four players to collaboratively manage the spread of an epidemic in a city. Participants must make quick decisions, such as issuing public health campaigns or vaccinations, highlighting the challenges of urban health and the impact of infectious diseases [7]. These activities transform museums into vibrant spaces where visitors connect through shared exploration and learning.

Museums and Wellbeing

Museums are essential for promoting psychological and social well-being by providing restorative environments that encourage connections. Participatory activities like DIY projects and collaborative exhibits help foster identity, community and enhance self-esteem while reducing stress. Research shows that interactive and co-creative museum activities lead to personal growth, sense of accomplishment, and strengthen social bonds. [2], [4].

One great example is the Holburne Museum’s “Image – Peer Supported Museums Group” which is designed for individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges, providing a supportive environment to foster creativity and independence. The group engages in specialist artist-led workshops covering skills like bronze clay jewelry, acrylic painting, and printmaking, followed by independent development. Members aim to enhance creativity using museum collections, develop skills, exhibit their work, and promote inclusion and well-being through art. [6]

A Future of Collaborative Communities

Museums are evolving beyond their traditional role of showcasing artifacts, becoming spaces that foster collaboration and community engagement. By incorporating these participatory elements ensures that museums are not just institutions for knowledge but vibrant spaces for social connection and shared experiences [3]. These innovations allow museums to serve as community hubs, where shared experiences and social bonds are nurtured. The future of museums lies in their ability to empower visitors to actively shape the experience, fostering a sense of belonging and deeper understanding while building stronger, more connected communities.

References

[1] Moura, H., et al., “Collaborative Museums: An Approach to Co-Design,” ACM CSCW 2012, pp. 681–684, 2012.

[2] Šveb Dragija, M., and Jelinčić, D.A., “Can Museums Help Visitors Thrive?,” Behav. Sci., vol. 12, no. 458, pp. 1–17, 2022.

[3] Wallen, L., and Docherty-Hughes, J.R., “Caring Spaces: Individual and Social Wellbeing in Museum Community Engagement Experiences,” J. Museum Education, vol. 47, no. 1, pp. 93–102, 2022. 

[4] “Transforming Community Engagement in Unexpected Spaces,” MuseumNext. [Online]. Available: https://www.museumnext.com/article/transforming-community-engagement-in-unexpected-spaces/. 

[5] “Inclusive Museum Community,” Doubleknot. [Online]. Available: https://www.doubleknot.com/blog/inclusive-museum-community.

[6] “Image – Peer Supported Museums Group,” The Holburne Museum. [Online]. Available: https://holburne.org/learning-and-creativity/mental-health-and-creativity/pathways-to-wellbeing/peer-led-museums-group/. 

[7] Science Museum, “Medicine: The Wellcome Galleries,” Science Museum. [Online]. Available: https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/see-and-do/medicine-wellcome-galleries.