Unveiling The Immersive Exhibition: A Must-See Experience for Art Lovers
Exploring the Wonders of Ancient Egypt: A Family Experience at ‘Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition’
A Thoughtful Decision for Family Outings
When considering a visit to a new attraction, especially with young children, I always weigh my options carefully. I often ponder how much of the experience I will be able to absorb. I don’t anticipate having the time to read every information panel, and I wonder if my kids will be engaged or simply run around. Ultimately, I ask myself if the outing will be worthwhile.
The Allure of ‘Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition’
Despite my usual reservations, I felt drawn to Glasgow’s latest exhibit, ‘Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition’. This attraction is described as an award-winning experience that spans eight large rooms filled with stunning 360-degree projections, a virtual reality segment, an interactive metaverse area, and two treasure rooms showcasing artifacts and replicas. It also features a holographic display of the mummification process and an AI photo booth.
First Impressions and Initial Reactions
Our adventure began on a positive note with family photos, capturing a moment where we were all smiling and looking at the camera. However, as we moved through the exhibit, I felt a sense of urgency as we rushed past the introductory boards that provided context about Ancient Egypt and the famed ‘Boy King’. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the chance to absorb that information.
Engaging Projections and Artefacts
Soon, we found ourselves captivated by some mesmerizing moving projections that entertained the entire family. The main hall, featuring a large replica sarcophagus and a seemingly floating mummy, had fewer exhibits, allowing us to appreciate each one fully.
The highlight for me and my four-year-old was the expansive 360-degree projection area, which was designed with families in mind—aside from a brief appearance by a mummified zombie. This immersive experience took us on a visual journey through Egypt’s rich history, showcasing its splendor and the discovery of the Boy King’s tomb. The gentle portrayal of afterlife characters made the themes accessible for young audiences, while insects crawled across the walls and golden treasures cascaded down, creating a magical atmosphere.
Virtual Reality and Holographic Experiences
We also ventured into the virtual reality section, which was a new experience for all of us. However, parents should be aware that it begins with a scene of waking up in a tomb before transitioning into the afterlife. My six-year-old found the lava-filled landscape reminiscent of the Nether from Minecraft, which he thoroughly enjoyed.
We opted to skip the holographic display of the mummification process, as it seemed potentially too graphic for my youngest child. As we donned our headphones and took our seats, a cadaver appeared on a stage-like setup, prompting me to decide it was best to leave.
The metaverse Room: A Sensory Adventure
The metaverse room was a whirlwind of sensory experiences and great fun. While I didn’t expect to leave with a wealth of facts, I gained insight into Howard Carter’s archaeological camp and the tomb he uncovered. My six-year-old was particularly engaged, and I found it necessary to hold his hand throughout to prevent any potential chaos. His avatar appeared as a miniature version of Carter, making it feel like we were exploring the Valley of the Kings together.
However, this section proved to be a bit overwhelming for my preschooler, as well as some other adult visitors.
A Memorable Conclusion
As we exited after 90 minutes, the AI-generated photos provided a good laugh, displayed on large screens for everyone to see. The tale of Tutankhamun, one of Ancient Egypt’s most renowned figures, has been told in various formats over the years, but this exhibition presents it in a fresh and engaging manner.
Even after 1,500 years since the last ancient Egyptian temple closed its doors, the culture remains relevant and intriguing. This exhibition offers a unique way for attendees to connect with the subject matter. While some elements may seem gimmicky, the overall experience was enjoyable, educational, and memorable, earning a thumbs-up from our entire family.
Exhibition Details
The exhibition is located at the SEC and runs from July 24 to October 26, with entry tickets starting at £22.50.
