A new VR experience coming to the Louvre Museum in Paris, France virtualizes of one of the most iconic paintings in history.
Mona Lisa: Beyond the Glass is due to arrive at the landmark institution on October 24. As the name suggests, the piece takes an in-depth look at the painting from storied artist, Leonardo da Vinci. It will feature as part of an exhibition commemorating the artist on the 500th anniversary of his death. The experience is developed by Emissive and produced by HTC’s cultural VR division, Vive Arts.
Beyond the Glass promises to preserve and expand the Mona Lisa viewing experience. It offers the chance not just to look at the painting without scores of people surrounding you, but also to get closer to it than ever before. It also highlights details you wouldn’t notice yourself and talks through da Vinci’s techniques. Finally, it offers the chance to explore the scenery and go beyond the static view of the painting itself.
Can’t make it to Paris? Don’t worry; an extended version of the app will also be coming to Viveport and other platforms in the future. This version of the piece will feature virtually recreated areas of the Louvre itself.
This isn’t the first time the Mona Lisa has been recreated in VR, though. Other apps like Art Plunge also recapture the painting inside VR, offering expanded takes on the original.
As for the exhibition, the experience will feature from October 24th 2019 to February 24th 2020. You can book a ticket to see it right here.
