An Immersive Celebration of Art and History
The magic of Giotto
Intoduction
The Magic of Giotto is a collaborative project designed to bring the timeless beauty of the Cappella degli Scrovegni in Padua to audiences in North America.
Co-organized by Hidonix, the Istituto Italiano di Cultura (IIC) in New York and Toronto, and the Musei Civici di Padua, "The Magic of Giotto" is a groundbreaking initiative that offers a virtual journey into Giotto's masterpiece, including rarely accessible areas like the crypt. By integrating advanced digital techniques with rich cultural heritage, the project provides a unique, multi-sensory experience bridging the gap between history and modernity.
Project Objectives
Accessibility to Cultural Heritage
Recreate the Cappella degli Scrovegni experience, including restricted areas such as the crypt and lost architectural elements like the original floor.
Global Outreach
Present the exhibition in New York and Toronto, expanding the appreciation of Giotto’s art beyond Italy.
Cultural Enrichment
Showcase complementary artworks, literature, and modern installations to contextualize and celebrate Giotto's legacy.
Engagement through Technology
Utilize digital platforms, including an app and a website, to enrich visitor interaction.
“It was like entering into the Chapel.
It’s very life-like and if you can’t travel to Italy this in the next best thing”
The experience
Immersive Technology
The highlight of the project was the immersive recreation of the Cappella degli Scrovegni, featuring parts not accessible to the public and elements no longer visible in the original chapel. Hidonix’s advanced spatial intelligence and extended reality technologies were instrumental in reconstructing these details, offering visitors a historically accurate glimpse into the past.
Visitors could walk through a virtual representation of the crypt and view the original floor, which is currently protected to prevent damage. This meticulous attention to detail ensured an authentic and enriching experience.
App and Website
To complement the exhibitions, a dedicated app and website were developed to enhance visitor engagement and accessibility. The app allowed visitors to scan exhibition panels, unlocking enriched content such as detailed descriptions, historical insights, and exclusive multimedia. Its personalized navigation ensured a seamless and interactive experience for attendees at both the New York and Toronto exhibitions. Meanwhile, the website served as the central hub for the project, providing comprehensive event details, managing ticketing, and offering virtual tours for those unable to attend in person. Together, these digital tools expanded the reach and impact of The Magic of Giotto, blending technology with cultural heritage.
Two Unique Exhibitions
At the IIC New York, visitors were treated to an extraordinary combination of art, photography, literature, and installation.
A masterpiece by Guariento, on loan from the Musei Civici di Padua, served as a centerpiece, offering a tangible connection to the era of Giotto. Magnani’s evocative collection of photographs provided a contemporary lens through which to appreciate Giotto’s artistic genius, while a modern installation by the artist Olmo added a fresh interpretative layer to the exhibition. Renowned Italian author Dacia Maraini enriched the cultural experience by presenting her book, In Praise of Disobedience, which drew thematic parallels between Giotto’s groundbreaking artistic approach and modern societal challenges.
At the IIC Toronto, the focus shifted toward immersive storytelling and interactive engagement. Visitors explored Giotto’s legacy through the virtual reconstruction of the Cappella degli Scrovegni, diving into hidden spaces like the crypt and the original floor, which are not accessible in the actual chapel.
Interactive panels and digital tools offered a deeper understanding of the artworks, ensuring a dynamic and memorable experience for attendees.
Project Outcomes
Cultural Impact
Successfully brought Giotto’s genius to new audiences, fostering a deeper appreciation for Italian cultural heritage.
Technological Success
Demonstrated the potential of immersive technology in preserving and showcasing historical art.
Engagement Metrics
High visitor engagement with the app and website, alongside sold-out exhibitions in both locations.